The first new moon of the lunar calendar officially ushered in the new year in many cultures Wednesday, marking the imminent arrival of spring and the first day of the Year of the Snake, which symbolizes good luck, rebirth and regality.

This year, Lunar New Year begins today, Wednesday, Jan. 29, and ends Feb. 12. Lunar New Year, also widely regarded as Chinese New Year since the late 19th century when it gained global recognition through Chinese immigrant communities, is a centuries-old tradition rooted in the lunar calendar.

For skywatchers, the Lunar New Year lines up perfectly with the new moon. According to NASA, the new moon becomes official at 7:36 a.m. Wednesday when it passes between the Earth and the Sun.

In honor of the Year of the Snake, let’s appreciate the strange anatomy and evolution of these slithery reptiles

Join the Austin community in celebrating the Year of the Snake with cultural performances, festive markets and special dining experiences.

Asian American communities around the U.S. and around the world are ringing in the Year of the Snake Wednesday, including in New York City. The Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival,

Chinese New Year marks the end of winter and the beginning of the new year. And 2025 will be the Year of the Snake. The Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese Zodiac, starts on Jan. 29 and lasts until the 2026 Lunar New Year's Eve on Feb.