Lunar New Year is a significant event for many Asian cultures, and it is celebrated with this Doodle. It originates from the lunisolar Chinese calendar, which is based on the sun and moon cycles. Every year, communities all throughout the world get together to celebrate a new beginning around the time of the first new moon in the lunar calendar.
The origins of Lunar New Year customs date back thousands of years, to a mythological beast that tormented people every year. In an attempt to fend off the beast, families lit fireworks, wrapped their doors with red paper, and put lanterns on overnight. Red lanterns are hanging in neighborhoods in large numbers these days. Giving cash in red envelopes to the elderly and the young in families and communities is another common practice.
2024 is the Year of the Dragon, which stands for strength, health, and good fortune, as illustrated in the Doodle artwork. To all those who celebrate, happy Tết!
