Lunar New Year Ignites Celebrations Around the World with the Start of the Year of the Horse and the Largest Travel Season in Asia

Hundreds of millions in East Asia and various regions around the world celebrated the start of the Lunar New Year and the announcement of the Year of the Horse, amidst traditional rituals that included fireworks, family prayers, and reunions. This occasion is one of the most important annual festivals in China and several Asian countries, symbolizing the beginning of a new cycle in the Chinese zodiac and associated with concepts of luck, renewal, and prosperity.

Record Travel Season in China

During the celebration period, China experiences what is known as the "Spring Festival Season," which is the largest annual travel movement in the world, with authorities expecting to record about 9.5 billion trips over 40 days, compared to about 9 billion trips last year. This massive figure reflects the significance of the festival in Chinese culture, as well as boosting economic activity and stimulating local consumption.

Impressive Technological Displays at Spring Festival Celebrations

The Chinese state television broadcast the grand annual Spring Festival gala, which attracted a wide audience both domestically and internationally. The gala featured human-like robots developed by Unitree Robotics, showcasing martial arts performances and sword displays alongside children, reflecting the rapid technological advancement in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Religious Rituals and Inherited Traditions in East Asia

In Taiwan, temple bells rang 108 times, a number that carries auspicious connotations in religious heritage, while worshippers flocked to the Pawan Temple in the capital Taipei to perform religious rituals and offer flowers and incense seeking blessings for the new year.
In Hong Kong, citizens lined up in front of temples before midnight holding incense sticks, wishing for a year filled with happiness and prosperity. In Vietnam, where the festival is known as "Tet," cities witnessed public celebrations that included musical performances, fireworks, and countdown displays to welcome the new year.

Celebrations Extend Beyond the Asian Continent

The celebration did not only take place in Asia but also extended to several global cities. In Moscow, streets were adorned with red lanterns and dragon sculptures during the annual Lunar New Year festival, indicating the growing cultural exchange between Russia and China.
In Buenos Aires, thousands gathered in the Chinatown to watch dragon and lion dance performances and martial arts, reflecting the active cultural presence of the Chinese community in South America.

A Global Occasion that Strengthens Family and Cultural Bonds

The Lunar New Year celebrations hold special symbolism for millions of families around the world, centering on family ties, honoring ancestors, and exchanging greetings. From Asia to the Americas, this occasion embodies scenes of joy, renewal, and social connection among different peoples and cultures.