Syracuse Sun

Many people in the United States marked the beginning of a new year on January 1, but for around 2 billion individuals from Asian cultures worldwide, the Lunar New Year festivities are just starting. This week marks the transition from the Year of the Dragon to the Year of the Snake, symbolizing harvest, spirituality, and good fortune according to Chinese Zodiac beliefs.

Lunar New Year celebrations can last up to 15 days and involve family gatherings, traditional foods, artistic performances, and gifting red envelopes to younger generations as a gesture of good fortune.

For those on campus interested in celebrating or experiencing these traditions, several events are planned:

- On Tuesday, January 28, the Asian American Journalists Association will host a celebration at Newhouse 1 Room 303 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., featuring activities and food.

- On Wednesday, January 29, dining centers will offer pop-up events with stir fry stations during dinner hours. The Newhouse International Students Association will also have a tabling event at food.com in Newhouse 3 from noon to 1 p.m., offering lucky red envelopes and treats.

- On Friday, January 31, international students from the School of Architecture along with Dean Michael Speaks will organize an event at Slocum Hall from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Activities include knot tying and calligraphy alongside musical performances. Additionally, Orange After Dark and the Center for International Services invite everyone to celebrate at Schine Student Center from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., with various cultural activities available.

- On Friday, February 7, a Chinese New Year Party hosted by the Chinese Student and Scholars Association and Chinese Union will take place at Goldstein Auditorium in Schine Student Center at 6 p.m., showcasing dance and martial arts related to Chinese culture.

Participants are encouraged to share their photos by emailing newsphoto@syr.edu for possible inclusion in SU News coverage.