新年快乐 — Xīnnián kuàilè — Happy New Year!

Ongoing cultural diversity awareness lessons continued today, Jan. 23, with participating Minisink Valley  Elementary School classes celebrating the Chinese New Year with a parade!

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is China’s most important festival and holiday time. The 2020 Chinese New Year falls on Saturday, Jan. 25, which begins the  “Year of the Rat.”

In the Chinese culture, this animal is seen as a sign of wealth and surplus. The new year features seven days of celebration.

Students and faculty also wore the color red as part of the school’s festivities and made red Chinese lanterns to carry in the parade.  Red corresponds with fire, symbolizes good fortune and joy. Red is found everywhere during Chinese New Year and other holiday celebrations and family gatherings. A red envelope is a monetary gift which is given in Chinese society during holiday or special occasions. The red color of the packet symbolizes good luck.

To view a parade photo gallery, visit the district’s Facebook page.