Tuesday is Lunar New Year (春节 or chūnjié), marking the beginning of the new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
Also known as Chinese New Year, the 15-day Spring Festival honors the end of winter and the emergence of spring. Each year, the holiday falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice. On the Gregorian calendar, the date varies.
Based on the Chinese zodiac, a system that functions on 12-year cycles and is represented by 12 different animals, 2026 is the Year of the Horse.
Chinese astrology determines that Horse signs are confident and responsible, but can have a defiance for being reined in by others. They may be impatient but are also intelligent, often enjoying being challenged by physical and mental exertion. Horse signs can be charming, adventurous and natural leaders.
Those born during a current or past Year of the Horse may experience bad luck and are encouraged to participate in traditional methods to ward it off. Though the year may pose challenges, Horse signs can be expected to come out the other side with personal growth and strength.
Traditions for Lunar New Year include, but are not limited to: carnivals, parades, fireworks and remembrance of ancestors. Those who celebrate may hang red decorations and thoroughly clean their homes in preparation, symbolically ridding them of ill fortune to make way for good luck. It is common to make large reunion meals and visit with family and friends.
The history of the holiday spans about 3,500 years.
The legend goes that a large beast with sharp teeth and horns that lived deep in the sea would wreak havoc among villages every Lunar New Year’s Eve. One year, it was discovered that this monster, named Nian, feared loud noises and the color red.
To protect themselves, the locals began the tradition of letting off firecrackers and hanging red decorations each year to scare the monster away back into the sea. Overall, the myth represents a new beginning to the year and triumph over evil.
On day 15 of the Spring Festival — the last day — the Lantern Festival takes place, marking the first full moon of the Chinese New Year. Candles may be lit outside to guide spirits home. Many can be seen carrying colorful lanterns with them or displaying them outside their homes.
The Ames Public Library will be hosting a Chinese New Year Celebration from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday in partnership with the Ames Chinese Language Academy.
The event invites all ages for an afternoon of cultural crafts, food and presentations.
More information on the event can be found on the Ames Public Library’s website.
