Chinese New Year 2025 Guide: How to celebrate and how many days it lasts in America
Chinese New Year 2025 begins on January 29th and lasts 16 days, ending with the Lantern Festival on February 13th. Celebrate in America with parades, family traditions, and cultural events across the country.
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is one of the most important cultural celebrations worldwide, observed by millions of people, including in the United States. In 2025, the festival begins on January 29th and spans 16 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival on February 13th. This period is rich with traditions and festivities designed to welcome the new lunar year.
From vibrant parades to meaningful family gatherings, Chinese New Year in the U.S. offers a unique blend of cultural experiences. This guide explores how long the festival lasts, its significance, and how to celebrate it in America.
How many days does Chinese New Year last in 2025?
The 2025 Chinese New Year officially begins on January 29th and lasts for 16 days, ending with the Lantern Festival on February 13th. The first seven days, from January 29th to February 4th, are considered public holidays in China, with businesses and government offices closing to allow for family reunions.
The remaining days leading up to the Lantern Festival involve various traditional activities, such as preparing festive meals, visiting temples, and decorating homes to usher in good fortune.
Chinese New Year is deeply rooted in traditions that honor family, ancestors, and the ushering in of good fortune. Each year is associated with one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. In 2025, it is the Year of the Snake, which symbolizes wisdom, intuition, and transformation.
Chinese New Year 2025 is a vibrant 16-day celebration beginning on January 29th and ending with the Lantern Festival on February 13th. Photo: LR composition.
How to celebrate Chinese New Year in America
Chinese New Year is celebrated with great enthusiasm in cities across the United States, especially in areas with significant Asian communities. Here’s how you can join in the festivities:
1. Attend Parades and Cultural Events
Cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles host some of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations in the U.S. Parades often feature:
- Dragon and lion dances to ward off bad luck.
- Elaborate floats adorned with red and gold decorations, symbolizing prosperity.
- Traditional music and cultural performances.
2. Enjoy Family Gatherings and Traditional Meals
Family is at the heart of Chinese New Year celebrations. Families gather to share symbolic dishes such as dumplings, noodles, and fish, each representing luck, longevity, or abundance. Exchanging red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money is another cherished tradition, especially for children and unmarried adults.
3. Decorate Your Home
Red is the primary color of Chinese New Year, symbolizing luck and joy. Homes and public spaces are decorated with:
- Red lanterns and banners featuring auspicious phrases.
- Door couplets, believed to bring good fortune.
Participating in these customs, even in small ways, is a meaningful way to honor the spirit of the celebration.
Chinese New Year are celebrating across America and around the Chinese community outside. Photo: AFP.
Significance of the Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival, celebrated on February 13th, marks the grand finale of Chinese New Year. This event is filled with activities symbolizing renewal and light:
- Lighting and releasing lanterns: This represents letting go of the past and embracing hope for the future.
- Eating tangyuan: These sweet glutinous rice balls symbolize unity and family togetherness.
- Lion dances and riddle-solving: Traditional performances and games add excitement to the festivities.
The Lantern Festival is a joyful conclusion to the New Year celebrations, emphasizing themes of family, prosperity, and optimism.