Bidding farewell to the mythical Dragon, the world welcomes the Year of the Snake on January 29 — the first day of the Lunar New Year. For those who celebrate this ancient festival, starting the year on a positive note is essential.

This week’s new moon, on Wednesday, Jan. 29, will signal the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which this year is called the "Year of the Snake."

It is, of course, the year of the Snake, so it will be a big year for you if the Snake is your zodiac sign. Lunar New Year 2025 is about strength and growth for Snakes.

Lunar New Year celebrations begin Wednesday. Here's everything to know about the 2025 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake.

Several countries mark their new year based on the Chinese lunisolar calendar involving movement of the Sun and Moon.

This year, Lunar New Year falls on Wednesday, Jan. 29. It ends Feb. 12. Lunar New Year, also widely regarded as Chinese New Year since the late 19th century when it gained global recognition through Chinese immigrant communities, is a centuries-old tradition rooted in the lunar calendar.

When is Lunar New Year in 2025? And why do people wear red as part of the celebrations? Answers to these questions and more as we say goodbye to the Dragon and enter the Year of the Snake. Flags have flown at half-staff for nearly 30 days following former president Jimmy Carter's death.