Global Celebrations of the Lunar New Year: Prayers, Fireworks, and Festivities
The Lunar New Year is being celebrated with prayers, fireworks, and festivities as people around the world mark the occasion. The Year of the Horse has begun, following the Year of the Snake, as part of the Chinese zodiac. This annual holiday is of great significance in China and other East Asian countries, with celebrations extending beyond the region.
In Hong Kong, crowds gathered at a temple at midnight to make wishes for the new year, filling the air with incense smoke. In Vietnam, entertainers performed at outdoor countdown events before fireworks displays in various cities, known as Tet. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by light shows and live music performances.
In Moscow, Chinese street fairs offered a taste of Chinese cuisine and cultural displays, with red lanterns and dragons adorning the snowy streets. The Lunar New Year celebrations in the Russian capital signify the growing ties between China and Russia, amid tensions with European governments over the conflict in Ukraine.
In Taiwan, the Baoan Temple in Taipei rang its bell 108 times, a symbol of good luck, as worshippers lit incense sticks and made offerings of flower bouquets. The solemn ceremony marked the beginning of the Lunar New Year in the capital city.