The people of many Asian countries around the world are in the midst of celebrating their most important holiday of the year. Chinese New Year, Spring Festival or the Lunar New Year as it is sometimes called falls this year on February 7, although it is celebrated over the course of 15 days. It is a time when families get together, often traveling great distances to their homes. It is a time of reunion, thanksgiving, special foods and traditions deeply rooted in this ancient culture. The festivities culminate on the 15th day of the First Moon with the Lantern Festival where families carry red lanterns in the streets and light candles as part of a great parade. Young men perform the dragon dance, bobbing and weaving in their brightly colored dragon costume. The sight is joyful and left a lasting impression on us when we lived in China and traveled to other Asian countries during this time of year. The bright and beautiful lanterns came to symbolize some of all we love about this rich culture. Happy Chinese New Year!
