Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year marks the most important holiday on the calendar in many Asian countries, including China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Korea, Vietnam, and more. It is also celebrated around the globe by people who have come from those countries (or whose ancestors did) and brought their wonderful cultural traditions with them. Celebrations include coming together with family and friends, feasting on traditional New Year's dishes, red decorations, fireworks, dancing, and preparations to bring good luck in the coming year.
Learn more about Lunar New Year traditions through the books and activities featured below.
A New Year's Reunion Read-Aloud Video
reunionfinal.mp4A New Year's Reunion
Lunar New Year is all about reuniting with family and friends. In this beautiful picture book from China, a father who works far away comes home to celebrate the New Year with his family.
Celebrate Lunar New Year With Author/Illustrator Grace Lin
YearoftheDog.mp4The Year of the Dog
In Grace Lin's Year of the Dog, we meet Pacy and her family just as they are celebrating Lunar New Year. Get a taste of the book by listening to chapter 2, called "How to Get Rich".
Make a New Year's banner, a (safe!) firecracker, and learn how to draw a dragon. Scroll down the page a bit to find the activities.
Year of the Tiger
This year will be the Year of the Tiger. Get ready with Grace Lin's video on how to draw a tiger. Or follow her steps for making your own Tiger paper cut-out!
Grace shares her mother's own recipe for this New Year's dinner must-have.
Lunar New Year Traditions
Director Corey Chan and his group are working to keep the ancient art of lion dancing alive today. Hear about their work and watch their amazing performance!
In the article from O Magazine, the author tells us about many important Lunar New Year traditions. Be sure to watch the video at the top, "7 Things to Know About Lunar New Year".
The animals of the Lunar calendar are based on the Chinese Zodiac. Learn about the zodiac creatures and their meaning in this article from National Geographic Kids.
Local Virtual Lunar New Year Celebrations
Online events include a lion dance workshop and dumpling making lessons.
Saturday, February 13, 2-5pm
The MFA's annual celebration will stream live and includes a lion dance demonstration and virtual art tour.
Friday, February 12, 7-8pm