Lunar New Year 2023

Lunar New Year, also known as Spring Festival (春节), is a traditional holiday that originated in China to celebrate the beginning of a new year. Gradually becoming a common tradition in Vietnam and South Korea as well as other countries, the holiday is now celebrated and beloved by people all around East and Southeast Asia. Based on the lunisolar calendar, Lunar New Year typically falls between January and February and aligns with the 12-year Chinese zodiac – each year being represented by a different animal sign. This year, Asian people around the world welcomed the “Year of the Rabbit” (or, in Vietnam, the "The Year of the Cat"), customary of peace, longevity and prosperity.

Lunar New Year is typically celebrated with a series of customs and traditions. These traditions can vary slightly depending on the region, but they are all designed for people to honor their cultural heritage and welcome the New Year with joy and optimism. For example, when the New Year is around the corner, people clean their houses to sweep away bad luck before decorating with red lanterns and paper cutouts. On New Year’s Day, traditions include giving loved ones red envelopes filled with “lucky money” and gathering with family for a big feast. Fireworks displays are also a common feature of the celebration, symbolizing the driving away of evil spirits. In general, the holiday is deeply steeped in joy and celebration – allowing Asian people to connect with their cultures and ring in the start of a new adventure.

However, it’s important to note that for some, this Lunar New Year was marked with tragedy. At a time supposed to be filled with hope and happiness, 11 were killed in a shooting at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio on Jan. 21. In the days that followed, their friends, family and community spent the holiday in mourning, with some celebrations being put on hold. But for those that continued, it was a way for the Asian community to push forward, stating that they will not be afraid and will remain unshakeable even in times of crisis.

Here are a few stories to show how USC students celebrated this “bunny” year. No matter what customs you chose, we hope this Lunar New Year brings you prosperity, good luck and happiness.