In January, families across Pleasanton celebrate Lunar New Year by cleaning their homes to sweep away bad luck from the past year. Red paper lanterns and signs decorate doors and walls, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.
What is the Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, marks the arrival of spring and the start of a new year based on the Lunar Calendar. It holds deep significance in many Southeast and East Asian countries, especially China.
The festival lasts fifteen days and is filled with vibrant traditions. Families gather to honor ancestors and reconnect with loved ones. Bright red envelopes containing money are given to children as tokens of good luck, while tangyuan, or sweet glutinous rice balls, are a popular treat.
Ways to Celebrate the Festival
“There’s usually a big feast with different dishes like fishcakes, noodles, and dumplings; it’s special because every dish symbolizes something, like prosperity, wealth, and abundance. It’s just about having a meal together on a special day,” said Nicole Sun (‘27).
In Pleasanton, neighbors, friends, and families host gatherings to share the festivities. Some enjoy traditional meals at home, while others visit Chinatown to watch lion dances and participate in cultural activities. These events create opportunities for people to celebrate and reconnect.
“My favorite tradition during Lunar New Year is getting together with my friends, lighting fireworks and setting them off in the sky. It’s the time where family friends can finally come together,” said Rachel Dong (‘27).
Although Pleasanton families celebrate with different traditions, the essence of Lunar New Year remains the same. It’s a time to honor cultural heritage, strengthen connections, and enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones.
“Every culture and every country has a different way to celebrate. However, it’s always about the reunion with family and spending time with the people they love,” said Pleasanton resident Vivian Yang.
