Chinese New Year, an event to recognize, enjoy and celebrate in Australia

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important celebration in Chinese culture. It marks the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar and is a time for families to gather, celebrate, and welcome good fortune.

Chinese New Year is also called Lunar New Year because it's decided according to the lunar calendar. The Spring Festival is usually on the first day of the lunar calendar. A series of celebrations will continue until the 15th day of the lunar calendar, which is the Lantern Festival.

Chinese New Year 2025 is the Year on the Snake and will fall on January 29^th marking the transition from the current 2024 Year of the Dragon. People in China get a 7 day holiday for the Chinese New Year. During this holiday, they gather with their families and watch the wonderful Spring Festival Gala while enjoying a delicious reunion dinner.

In Australia, where we benefit from a long history of Chinese immigration, Chinese New Year is a widely celebrated event particularly in cities with large Chinese communities like Sydney and Melbourne and rural cities such as Bendigo. It's a time for celebration, family gatherings, and cultural exchange.

Highlights and benefits of what it means in Australia are:

• Cultural Celebration: It's an opportunity to experience and appreciate Chinese culture, traditions, and customs.
• Community Festivities: Vibrant celebrations take place across the country, featuring colourful parades, lion and dragon dances, traditional music, and delicious food.
• Family Gatherings: Families come together to share festive meals, exchange red envelopes (hongbao) containing lucky money, and spend quality time together.

• Economic Boost: The celebrations attract tourists and boost local businesses, especially in areas with significant Chinese communities.

And really, what better country to recognize the Year of the Snake than here in Australia.

Overall, Chinese New Year in Australia is a joyous occasion that brings people together, promotes cultural understanding, and adds to the vibrant multicultural tapestry of the country.

At newsXpress Sunbury we are privileged to offer for purchase celebratory coins from the Royal Australia Mint to mark the Chinese New Year and the now available Year of the Snake collectible currency are well presented and a great addition to any collection.