Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a time of vibrant traditions, heartfelt celebrations, and profound cultural significance. As one of the most anticipated holidays in Chinese culture, it is much more than a time for fireworks and feasts—it is a moment to reflect on the past, cherish loved ones, and look forward to a hopeful future.
The 2025 Chinese New Year begins with the Year of the Snake according to the Chinese zodiac. The Snake is a symbol of wisdom, transformation, and intuition. Often associated with elegance, mystery, and strategic thinking, the Snake encourages people to embrace self-reflection and approach challenges with calm and resourcefulness.
“Chinese New Year is a cherished time of joy, togetherness, and celebration for all generations. As we welcome the Year of the Snake, may it bring transformation, renewal, and boundless blessings to our Committee of 100 family, friends, colleagues and partners,” said Ted Wang, Committee of 100 Board Member and CEO of Angel Pond.
At its core, Chinese New Year is a celebration of renewal. Falling at the start of the lunar calendar, it symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter—a chance to let go of misfortunes from the past year and embrace opportunities ahead. This sense of hope and optimism resonates deeply, offering valuable lessons for us all, regardless of background or geography.
“The symbolism and traditions around food, words, and things that one can and cannot do during Lunar New Year bring a sense of identity, fun, and esteem to being Chinese American,” said Cyndie Chang, Committee of 100 Member and Managing Partner at Duane Morris LLP. “As I look forward to family gatherings during this season, I also look forward to this year’s Committee of 100 Annual Conference & Gala in April— that is also a family reunion bringing together Committee of 100 Members and others that strongly identify, care, and revere the Chinese American experience.”
A Time for Family and Traditions
Chinese New Year is inseparably tied to the value of family. Across the world, families come together to share meals, honor their ancestors, and partake in traditions passed down through generations. The reunion dinner, often considered the most important meal of the year, serves as a reminder of the strength and unity that family brings, no matter the challenges life may present.
“The Chinese New Year is a wonderful opportunity for me to joyfully share the rich traditions and cherished values of Chinese culture with my colleagues and friends,” said Daphne Kwok, Committee of 100 Board Member and VP, Diversity Equity & Inclusion, Asian American & Pacific Islander Audience Strategy at AARP.
Rituals like cleaning the house to sweep away bad luck, giving red envelopes filled with money to younger generations, and decorating with auspicious symbols of prosperity highlight the desire for a fresh start. These traditions remind us that even in uncertain times, the bonds of family and shared cultural values provide comfort, stability, and strength.
Looking to the Future with Hope
Chinese New Year is not just a reflection of the past; it is a celebration of hope for the future. Each zodiac year carries its own meaning and symbolism, inspiring optimism and a sense of purpose for what lies ahead. The New Year invites us to envision new opportunities, set intentions, and believe in the possibility of positive change.
“Known as the Spring Festival, Chinese New Year heralds the arrival of spring—a season of renewal, hope, and boundless optimism. As we embrace the Year of the Snake, may this mystical creature bring prosperity, good fortune, and endless blessings to all,” said Jay Xu, Committee of 100 Board Member and Director Emeritus of the Asian Art Museum.
This spirit of renewal feels especially important in times of uncertainty. While the future may hold unknowns, the enduring lessons of Chinese New Year remind us that hope, resilience, and togetherness can help guide us forward. By embracing these themes, we can navigate challenges with grace and confidence.
Hang Kei Simon Wong, Committee of 100 Next Generation Leader and Investor and Mentor at Unreasonable, stated “For me, Lunar New Year is the perfect time to travel back to South Florida, visit my parents, and celebrate our heritage together. Plus, with the beautiful January and February weather, there’s no better place to be! It’s also a meaningful moment to pause, reflect with gratitude one month into the new year, and realistically refine or reset any goals set at the start of January.”
The Global Relevance of Chinese New Year
As Chinese New Year is celebrated worldwide, it offers an opportunity for people of all cultures to come together, learn from one another, and embrace the universal values of hope and renewal. Its traditions and values transcend borders, serving as a reminder of the shared human desire for growth, connection, and a brighter future.
The Chinese New Year is much more than a holiday—it is a celebration of the human spirit. It reminds us that no matter how unpredictable the world may seem, there is always a chance for renewal, optimism, and progress.
As we step into this new year, may the traditions of Chinese New Year inspire us all to embrace hope, foster unity, and believe in the power of fresh beginnings. May we carry its lessons with us, lighting the path forward for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
From Committee of 100, wishing all who read this a prosperous, joyous, and hopeful Chinese New Year!
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