The Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year. Chinese New Year, Vietnamese New Year [Tet], Korean New Year [Sol-Nal], Tibetan New Year [Losar] follow many of the same customs dating back thousands of years.

It symbolizes renewal and a fresh start. It brings families together with traditional food, festive decorations and hopes for good luck in the coming year. It honors all of the people in our lives, past and present.

Since the lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, Lunar New Year officially starts on the first new moon. This year it's on January 29, 2006. The festival ends with the full moon, fifteen days later, on February 13, 2006. Buy Lunar New Year greeting cards here.

This year we celebrate the year of the dog. Those under this sign are extremely loyal, honest and are the best confidants (they keep secrets really well). Stubborn, self-centered, eccentric, critical are some other dog attributes. They make good leaders. Compatible with those born in the years of the Hare, Tiger and Horse. Buy Dog or Chinese Zodiac greeting cards here.

Peace. Safety. Good Luck & Prosperity.
May they all be yours.

Related Links

More on Lunar New Year Traditions
Asia for Kids | Lunar New Year
AsianAmericanBooks | Lunar New Year Across Asia
University of Victoria | Chinese New Year

More on Year of the Dog and Chinese Zodiac
Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco | Year of the Dog
Find Your Fate | Animal Sign - Dog