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Dr Sijing Lu, School of Modern Languages and Cultures at The University of Warwick explains Lunar New Year

Dr Sijing Lu, Assistant Professor of Translation and Transcultural Studies at the School of Modern Languages and Cultures at The University of Warwick tells us why the Lunar New Year is so important, along with explaining the significance of the Year of the Snake.

“The Lunar New Year is a festival celebrated in China and other Asian countries, marking the beginning of the lunar calendar year. It is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in the world. During this festival, people typically express their hopes for prosperity and health in the coming year through family reunions and ancestor worship. Communities also host traditional activities to celebrate, such as lion dances, the giving of red envelopes and putting up spring couplets, all of which symbolise good fortune and abundance.

“The Year of the Snake holds profound meaning and special significance in Chinese culture. In ancient China, the snake was regarded as a mysterious and powerful creature, symbolising wisdom, spirituality, and longevity. People born in the Year of the Snake are often thought to possess resilience, adaptability, and sharp insight.”