Courtesy of Tom Family/Chinatown Community Young Lions
Evelyn Tom tries on her lion dance costume.
About 2 billion people are getting ready to ring in the new year again! February 10 marks the start of Lunar New Year. Beginning this year, the start of Lunar New Year will be an official holiday for public schools throughout New York. It’s the first state to recognize the holiday in this way.
The holiday, also known as Chinese New Year, lasts 15 days. It’s a time for people in Asian communities to honor their heritage. Many people eat special meals, set off fireworks, and exchange gifts.
The coming year will be the Year of the Dragon. On the Chinese calendar, each year is represented by one of 12 animals. The dragon is the only mythical creature on the calendar. Many people consider the dragon to be an important symbol of good luck. Those born in the Year of the Dragon are said to be wise, successful, and powerful.