BEIJING (AP) – On Tuesday, people around the world celebrated the Lunar New Year with traditional prayers, vibrant fireworks, and festive activities, welcoming the Year of the Horse. This significant holiday is pivotal in Chinese culture and is observed in several East Asian nations, as well as by communities worldwide.
In China, the Lunar New Year was marked by a grand television gala showcasing humanoid robots. The CCTV Spring Festival gala featured an impressive martial arts performance where children and robots worked in tandem, highlighting advancements in robotics and AI. The display from Unitree Robotics captivated viewers as the humanoids executed choreographed routines, including swordplay, emphasizing China's ongoing commitment to technological innovation.
In Hong Kong, the celebration reached its peak at midnight when crowds gathered in temples, embracing the age-old ritual of making wishes for the upcoming year. Worshippers held clusters of incense sticks, bowing in reverence before placing them at the temple hall—a poignant symbol of hope and renewal.
Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the Lunar New Year is celebrated as Tet. Festivities included live performances leading up to midnight, followed by exhilarating fireworks that illuminated the night sky in major cities. Bridges and skyscrapers were adorned with light displays, creating an electrifying atmosphere as locals reveled in rhythm to popular music.
In Moscow, the streets transformed into a festive atmosphere reminiscent of traditional Chinese street fairs. Numerous stalls offered an array of Chinese cuisine while attendees enjoyed entertainment activities amidst snowy surroundings adorned with red lanterns and dragon motifs. This year marked the third annual Lunar New Year celebration in the Russian capital, coinciding with a period of strengthening ties between China and Russia, which has raised concerns among European nations due to ongoing geopolitical tensions related to the Ukraine conflict.
In Taiwan, the Baoan Temple experienced a powerful and solemn moment as the temple bell tolled 108 times. This auspicious number resonated throughout Taipei as worshippers gathered to light incense, bow, and offer colorful bouquets—a symbolic gesture welcoming the new year.
In Buenos Aires, Argentina, thousands of residents congregated in Chinatown to participate in the Lunar New Year festivities. The vibrant celebration featured dragon and lion dances, alongside martial arts demonstrations, showcasing the dynamic Chinese immigrant community that contributes significantly to Argentina's cultural diversity, which numbers over 180,000 individuals.
The Lunar New Year presents an opportunity for various cultures to come together, share traditions, and express their hopes for the year ahead. Across continents, from the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the vibrant squares of Buenos Aires, communities engaged in a rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and joy, reflecting the resilience and unity that the celebration embodies.
