What is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year is a major celebration that is observed by numerous cultures, mostly in East and Southeast Asia, including China, Vietnam, South Korea, and Malaysia. It is often referred to as “Chinese New Year” because the celebration is considered to have originated there. Lunar New Year provides an opportunity for families to reunite and celebrate traditions.

Lunar New Year is the beginning of a calendar year where the months are based on the cycles of our moon. It is based on the lunar calendar, which is different from the Gregorian calendar used in the United States and many other parts of the world. Those who observe Lunar New Year celebrate for multiple days—not just one day (New Year’s Day), as in the Gregorian calendar.

When Does Lunar New Year Begin?

In 2023, Lunar New Year begins on January 22. LA County Library is celebrating throughout the month of January with in-person and virtual events, along with a booklist with titles for all ages to enjoy. Please see below for more information and registration details.

Does This Mean That It Won’t Be the Year of The Tiger Anymore?

Yes! It’s time to turn the page to a new animal from the Chinese Zodiac for 2023: the rabbit. The Chinese Zodiac is a cycle of 12 years, where each year is represented by one of 12 animals. This year, 2023, is the year of the rabbit, and what better time to hop to your local LA County Library location? In Chinese astrology, the rabbit symbolizes patience and luck, which could mean that 2023 will provide us with peace and success. Those born in the year of the rabbit are typically calm, decisive, and rarely panic. Fun fact: the moon goddess, Chang’e, in the Chinese legend, has a rabbit as her pet.

What is LA County Library Doing to Celebrate Lunar New Year?

We’ve got events throughout January to commemorate Lunar New Year, and you’re invited! At Hacienda Heights Library, you can learn about the importance of paper lanterns for the New Year and make your own lantern. At Lancaster Library, you can create Rabbit corner bookmarks that will help keep your place in one of our books. You can also learn about New Year’s celebrations throughout the world at Quartz Hill Library. And at Rowland Heights Library, Paul Stein, violinist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic for 36 years, will bring exciting and beautiful music for children to celebrate the New Year. For more details and registration info for these and other great events, please see below!

Books to Celebrate Lunar New Year