By Zoila Palma: The Chinese community around the world is preparing to celebrate the Lunar New Year which ushers in the Year of the Horse.
The celebration is observed by millions worldwide with family gatherings, cultural traditions, and hopes for prosperity.
This year’s observance falls on February 17 and begins the 16-day Spring Festival, one of the most important holidays in the Chinese lunar calendar.
Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, marks the start of a new zodiac cycle based on the lunar calendar, with the date shifting each year in the Gregorian calendar.
Celebrations are especially prominent across Asia, particularly in China, and typically feature red decorations, elaborate meals, house cleaning, and visits among relatives and friends. Lighting firecrackers remains a central tradition rooted in ancient folklore.
According to legend, the monster Nian would emerge from the sea each Lunar New Year’s Eve to terrorize villages. Villagers eventually discovered the beast feared the color red and loud noises, prompting the widespread customs of hanging red decorations and setting off fireworks. These practices have since come to symbolize protection, the triumph over evil, and a fresh start for the new year.
The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle, with 2026 representing the Horse, the seventh animal in the sequence. In mythology, the order was decided by a Great Race hosted by the Jade Emperor, where the Snake famously outmaneuvered the Horse to finish ahead.
The Year of the Horse is associated with energy, adventure, and bold forward movement, in contrast to the more introspective Year of the Snake that preceded it.
People born in Horse years are considered lively, charismatic, and natural leaders who thrive in dynamic environments.
The post Chinese community prepares to welcome Lunar New Year celebrations appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The Chinese community around the world is preparing to celebrate the Lunar New Year which ushers in the Year of the Horse. The celebration is observed by millions worldwide with family gatherings, cultural traditions, and hopes for prosperity. This year’s observance falls on February 17 and begins the 16-day Spring Festival, one
The post Chinese community prepares to welcome Lunar New Year celebrations appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
