The world welcomes the Year of the Snake for Lunar New Year on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. See how various countries celebrate with decorations, food and performances.

It’s almost time to celebrate the Lunar New Year, the year of the snake. New Year’s Day is Wednesday, Jan. 29 in 2025.

The first new moon of the lunar calendar officially ushered in the new year in many cultures Wednesday, marking the imminent arrival of spring and the first day of the Year of the Snake, which symbolizes good luck, rebirth and regality.

In many Asian cultures, the Lunar New Year is a celebration marking the arrival of spring and the start of a new year on the lunisolar calendar

Many Chinese who work in bigger cities return home during the eight-day national holiday in what is described as the world's biggest annual movement of humanity.

Lunar New Year festivals and prayers are marking the start of the Year of the Snake around Asia and the world.

The Lunar New Year, an ancient tradition rooted in China that marks the first new moon of the year, is Wednesday. Celebrations of the Year of the Snake are set for Long Island and across the United States,