In pictures: Welcoming the Lunar New Year

Across Asia and around the globe, millions of people are joyfully welcoming the Lunar New Year, a significant event that coincides with the first new moon of the lunar calendar. This celebration is widely regarded as the most important occasion of the year for many individuals in Asia and various Asian communities worldwide. The Lunar New Year symbolizes a fresh start and new beginnings for those who partake in the festivities. The celebrations typically last for about 15 days and are filled with vibrant activities such as fireworks, music, fairs, and traditional dances. Streets across Asia come alive with the sounds of dragon and lion dances as communities gather to celebrate this special time. In Beijing, China, performers took to the stage to mark the beginning of the Year of the Snake. The atmosphere was electric as crowds gathered at Ditan Park, also known as the Temple of Earth, to witness the colorful performances. Stilt walkers added an extra layer of excitement to the parade, gracefully moving through the park while women held colorful parasols. The celebrations in Beijing were just one part of the larger festivities taking place across the continent. In Yangon, Myanmar, a woman lit a candle inside a Chinese temple, her face illuminated by the soft glow as she made a wish. In Bangkok, Thailand, another woman prayed near a shrine, surrounded by the fragrant smoke of burning incense and the warm light of red lanterns. Many people took the opportunity to pose for pictures, capturing the joyful moments to share with friends and family. In Surabaya, Indonesia, prayers were offered at the Hong San Koo Tee temple, where people stood in line, holding incense as they prayed together. The sense of community was palpable as everyone came together to honor their traditions and celebrate the new year. In Banda Aceh, dancers performed the Lion Dance, a traditional performance believed to bring good luck. Spectators gathered to watch the colorful and lively display, their faces filled with excitement as the dancers moved gracefully. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, worshippers gathered at the Taoist temple of Sin Sze Si Ya to pray and celebrate. The temple was bustling with people who came to seek blessings and honor their cultural heritage. In Manila, Philippines, dragon dancers made their way through the streets, accompanied by the loud sounds of firecrackers that filled the air with energy. The streets were alive with joy as the dancers performed, bringing smiles to the faces of onlookers. In Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, large candles were lit at Darma Ramsi Temple to mark the Lunar New Year. A woman lit a prayer candle, adding to the beautiful atmosphere of the celebration. In New York's Chinatown, dancers wearing lion costumes performed during a midnight celebration, their movements synchronized with the festive music that echoed through the streets. The bright lights and decorations created a lively mood as people gathered to witness the traditional dance. In Seoul, South Korea, dancers performed on stage at Namsangol Hanok Village, showcasing their rich culture and traditions. In Hanoi, Vietnam, where the Lunar New Year is known as Tet, a woman held incense as she prayed, her heart filled with hope for the new year. The celebrations were a beautiful blend of tradition, community, and joy as people welcomed the new year with open hearts and minds.