The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, begins on Wednesday, January 29. We celebrate the Year of the Wooden Snake, not only in Asia but also in Amsterdam, such as on Zeedijk. Gong Xi Fa Cai to everyone celebrating!
Lunar New Year lasts about 2 weeks. The Chinese calendar is based on the sun and the moon. The date is determined by the lunar calendar; the new year begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice on December 21. This means almost 14 days of celebration.
Red Fireworks
During the New Year in Asia, people visit family. The celebration includes dragon and lion dances and gifts in red paper. According to a legend, there was a monster that liked humans. To scare it away, people make a lot of noise with fireworks and firecrackers.
Chinese Zodiac
In Chinese astrology, each year represents an animal. This comes from a legend about Buddha inviting animals to a race. The winners were named after a month. The order is: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Cunning Rat
In another version, the animals had to cross a river. The rat pushed the cat off the ox to secure a top position. This is why cats and rats are now enemies.
Wooden Snake
Those born in 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, and 2025 are Snakes. In 2025, it is the Wooden Snake, known for its charm and creativity.
Celebrating the New Year
The new year begins on January 29 with a ceremony at the Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple and a lion dance on Zeedijk. Everyone is welcome!
On February 1, there is also a parade through the Chinese neighborhood, with lions, fireworks, and music, starting at the temple and a big celebration at Leidseplein from 6 PM.
Happy New Year, or Gong Xi Fa Cai.