(KGTV) -- Feb. 12, 2021, is a very important day for many people across the world, as it marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year.
The Lunar New Year typically falls between Jan. 20-Feb. 21, and it is celebrated around the globe, particularly in China, Vietnam, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Tibet.
The Lunar New Year also marks the change of signs on the Chinese zodiac calendar. The year 2020 was the Year of the Rat; the new year means it is now the Year of the Ox.
Referred to by many as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, the Lunar New Year lasts up to 16 days. In China, the first seven days are considered a public holiday.
The Lunar New Year is a chance for a fresh start; the annual festival includes cleaning, cleansing, hanging banners, food preparation and eating with loved ones. People typically travel home from wherever they are to see loved ones for a few days up to a few weeks.
However, with the coronavirus pandemic, celebrants in many countries have been advised to celebrate the new year at home. Some companies and tourist destinations responded by hosting or providing virtual resources, markets or conferences to help people celebrate virtually with others, be they strangers or loved ones.
The Year of the Ox is a hardworking zodiac sign that signifies movement, and Hong Kong-based feng shui master Thierry Chow told CNN, "So, hopefully, the world will be less static than last year and get moving again in the second half of the year.”
Specifically, this year is the year of the metal ox, and Chow added the emphasis on metal could signify a focus on industries that use metal, or the needle of a syringe.
Check out these virtual events to celebrate!
Balboa Park's House of China Virtual Celebration (Feb. 12): Balboa Park's House of China will celebrate Chinese New Year on YouTube with traditional dances and performances, and an online auction. Link
Annual San Diego Tet Festival (Feb. 13): San Diego's annual Tet Festival brings a virtual celebration of Lunar New Year with live entertainment, giveaways, performances from A-list Vietnamese artists, and much more. Link
Annual San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair (Feb. 20 - 21): Join the San Diego Chinese New Year Fair for a free virtual event with musical performances, acrobatics and other live entertainment, handicrafts, and more. Link
Japanese Friendship Garden Collaboration (various dates): Balboa Park's Japanese Friendship Garden is partnering with local organizations to present several fun Lunar New Year activities with films, virtual workshops, and more. Link
