Simply put, Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are not the same. Despite being related, there are a few noteworthy differences between the two. Read on to find out what they are. The Differences between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year 1. "Chinese New Year" is specific while "Lunar New Year" is more general. Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. Chinese New Year specifically refers to the celebration in China and among Chinese communities worldwide, while Lunar New Year is a broader term that includes various cultures and countries that follow the lunar calendar. The main differences In diaspora communities, particularly in cultural enclaves, Lunar New Year is visibly and joyfully celebrated. In the Chinese zodiac, 2025 is the Year of the Snake. Different countries across Asia celebrate the new year in many ways and may follow a different zodiac. What is the Lunar New Year? Besides the wording, there are differences between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year. Chinese New Year in China and Hong Kong includes events like parades, dragon and lion dances, as well as customs observed at work and within the family, like gatherings, giving red packets, decorating with specific flowers and fruits, and, of course The Lunar New Year usually starts sometime between late January and mid-February. This year, the festivities begin on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, marking the arrival of the Year of the Snake . Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are two terms that often get used interchangeably - but they are not necessarily the same thing. Lunar New Year refers to the celebration of the new year based Learn why Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year are not the same, and how different Asian countries celebrate this festival with their own traditions and legends. Find out the date, animal, and meaning of Lunar New Year 2023. You probably already know about Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is a lunar new year celebration that’s similar to lunar calendars used by Tibetans, Hindus, certain Buddhist groups, and even one sect of Judaism. Lunar New Year is celebrated when the first new lunar cycle starts with a new moon. (A new moon is the absence of the moon.) In China, there is no difference between the Chinese New Year and the Lunar New Year. These two phrases both refer to the Spring Festival (春节 chūn jié). Chinese Lunar New Year is the 1st of the first month in the Chinese calendar. However, the Lunar New Year in other countries is based on the purely lunar calendar instead of the lunisolar Despite the variations, Lunar New Year celebrations across these cultures share common themes of family gatherings, honoring ancestors, and wishing for good luck and prosperity in the upcoming year. The Differences between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year 1. “Chinese New Year” is specific while “Lunar New Year” is more general. Chinese New Year and the Vietnamese New Year (called Tết in Vietnam) actually have a lot in common. What we can be sure of is that Lunar New Year holidays are always about dedicating time for family, gatherings, gifts and hoping for the best for the New Year to come. By reading the major differences between Chinese Lunar New Year and Western New Year, you will get to know more about Chinese culture. If you are a cultural buff, it’s worthwhile to have a tour during Chinese Lunar New Year. See our sample tours for some inspiration. Explore China during Chinese Lunar New Year . 9 Days Chinese New Year Tour The terms Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year are often used interchangeably. But it’s not the same. Although both celebrate the start of a new year according to the lunar calendar, they have different meanings, traditions, and cultural significance. Another difference between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year is the way people celebrate them. Chinese New Year is known for its rich and colorful traditions, such as cleaning the house The key difference between the Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year is while the Lunar New Year is the broader term associated with the start of a new year on the lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon, the Chinese New Year refers to the cultural traditions associated with celebrations within mainland China and Taiwan. In their post “Chinese New Year, not Lunar New Year”, they wrote: “I encourage everyone to not replace the name CNY with ‘Lunar New Year’.” They then provided three reasons as to why CNY is the correct term. The first: CNY is not New Year’s Day in the Lunar Calendar. Chinese New Year vs. Lunar New Year — Know the Differences. Simply put, Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are not the same, although they are very much connected. In a casual conversation, both terms can be used interchangeably as synonyms. However, in a more strict cultural environment, it is necessary to understand the differences between The Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Wood Snake. This article explores the snake's dual symbolism—representing potential dangers and good fortune, rebirth and wisdom. The Wood element adds nurturing and growth to the Snake's energy, promising a year of personal development, strong relationships, and environmental consciousness. Learn about the unique traits of the Wood Snake year and The start of the new year is a time of great celebration around the world. However, not all new years are celebrated on the same date or in the same way. In many Asian countries, Lunar New Year, or Chinese New Year, is one of the most important holidays. What Is the Difference between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year? The festival frequently referred to as ‘Chinese New Year’ is not only celebrated in China. The term ‘Lunar New Year’ is increasingly used to refer to festivals in other countries that take place at the same time and with many of the same traditions as in China.
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