Lunar New Year festivals and prayers are marking the start of the Year of the Snake around Asia and farther afield.

While slithering into the Lunar New Year, Ohio University student organizations brought together and unified communities to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant holidays celebrated across East and Southeast Asia.

The Lunar New Year also is an important occasion for spending time with family and to pay respects to ancestors and older family members. Families will come together to practice c