Lunar New Year celebrations usher in the year of the snake across Asia

In the context of ongoing celebrations across many Asian countries, January 29, 2025, marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year festivities as families gather to welcome the Year of the Snake. This date is significant as millions return home, participating in a traditional migration expected to involve about nine billion passenger trips across various transport modes throughout a 40-day period. The celebrations showcase vibrant traditions including family meals, temple visits, and festive decorations, with red being the predominant color believed to usher in good fortune and ward off evil. Heavy travel activities have been observed, with not only train stations but also airports being exceptionally busy. In South Korea, snow disruptions added challenges as people attempted to reach their families during the New Year period. The high volume of travelers, particularly from Incheon International Airport, is expected to set records for passenger counts, further emphasizing the importance of this time for familial connections. Cultural practices rich with symbolism play a key role in the celebrations. Temples across Asia witness traditions where individuals pray for luck, health, and prosperity. Community events like parades, carnivals, and fireworks bring families and neighborhoods together as they enjoy local delicacies and partake in traditional games. Moreover, innovations in merchandise celebrate the new animal of the zodiac, with a focus on creating a friendly and inviting depiction of snakes that dispels fears associated with the creature. As the new year begins, it signifies both an ending and a beginning as communities aim to uphold cherished traditions while embracing the future with hope and optimism.