Lunar New Year: Common Traditions To Know

Though many of us celebrated the new year a month ago, those who celebrate Lunar New Year will soon ring in 2022. 

Whether it’s dragon dances, family gatherings, or the exchanging of red envelopes, many Asian communities in Oklahoma City and around the world celebrate Lunar New Year.

Jenny Statler, a leader in the OKC Asian community, recalls the significance of the holiday to her and her family.

"Whether you call it Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year, or Vietnamese New Year," Statler said. "Just understanding the significance and importance of family on that day is really all that matters." 

Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities. 

The holiday spans 15 days. Each year in the Lunar calendar is represented by one of 12 zodiac animals-- 2022 is the year of the tiger.

"The regular calendar is January 1st through December 31st," Statler said. "Lunar New Year is based on the lunar schedule, so the new year is on a different day every year."

Many families celebrate by making special dishes that they eat only once a year. 

Another popular tradition is the exchanging of red envelopes representing wealth and prosperity- they include money bestowed from an elder.

Statler says the celebrations are not just for Asians, they’re open to everyone.

If you missed the Myriad Gardens Lunar New Year celebration, here are some other upcoming Lunar New Year Celebrations:

FREE Online Lunar New Year Storytime with the Downtown Library. Enjoy interactive songs, stories and rhymes from the comfort of your home. Registration required.

Lion Dance at Super Cao Nguyen

Saturday, Feb. 5: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 6: 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.