Lunar New Year is a festival based on the first day of the new year in the lunisolar calendar – a calendar based on cycles of the Moon’s phases and the sun’s position. It is widely celebrated in Asia, including China, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and more.
Lunar New Year is a festival widely celebrated in Asia that marks the beginning of the new year in the lunisolar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon’s phases and the sun’s position. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate the end of the old year and the beginning of the new, and it is often celebrated with a variety of traditions and activities such as cleaning and decorating the home, giving gifts and lucky money, visiting temples and pagodas, and sharing meals with loved ones.
Many countries in Asia celebrate Lunar New Year including Vietnam, Korea, China, Taiwan, Mongolia, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan.
Is Chinese New Year same as Lunar New Year?
Chinese New Year is not the same as Lunar New Year. While Lunar New Year is a widely-celebrated holiday throughout Asia, the term “Chinese New Year” is specific to the celebration of this holiday in China and among people of Chinese heritage.
Using the term “Chinese New Year” in other contexts outside of Chinese culture can be perceived as insensitive, ignorant, or even rude, as it denies the traditions and celebrations of other Asian cultures.
To avoid causing offense, it is best to use the term “Lunar New Year” when speaking to people of unknown heritage, or to specify the particular heritage of the person you are speaking with, such as “Vietnamese New Year” or “Korean New Year”.
By using inclusive and respectful language, we can celebrate the diversity and richness of the Lunar New Year holiday while also honoring the traditions and cultures of those who celebrate it.