Celebrating Lunar New Year at Parkside

Lunar New Year is a time of joy, renewal, and tradition, celebrated across many Asian communities, including those in China, Vietnam, Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore. Marking the beginning of a new lunar cycle, the holiday typically falls between late January and early February and lasts for 15 days. Each year is associated with an animal from the Chinese Zodiac, and 2025 welcomes the Year of the Snake—a symbol of intelligence, resilience, and love.

At The Parkside School, we embraced the spirit of Lunar New Year with a special celebration hosted by the Parents Association, coordinated by Chris Horger and Sarah Carpenter. On January 29, students gathered to learn about the rich traditions and cultural significance of the holiday. Ms. Mejia, our DEIB Coordinator, shared the many ways families prepare for the New Year, including cleaning their homes for a fresh start, decorating with red for good fortune, and exchanging red envelopes as a gesture of prosperity and goodwill.

As part of the festivities, students had the opportunity to sample traditional dumplings and mandarin oranges—foods that symbolize wealth, health, and happiness in the New Year. They also learned about the holiday’s 15-day celebrations, which include honoring ancestors, strengthening connections with family and friends, and culminating with the Lantern Festival, a tradition that represents hope and new beginnings.

By bringing these traditions into our classrooms, we deepen our appreciation for the diverse cultures within our school community. At Parkside, we believe that celebrating cultural holidays fosters inclusivity, curiosity, and understanding—values that help shape a more connected and compassionate world.