Lunar New Year is one of the biggest celebrations of the year for those of Asian heritage, involving family gatherings, lion dances, fireworks and for children, the exchange of red envelopes stuffed with cash.
The Lunar New Year begins Wednesday, according to the lunisolar calendar. And this year it's the Year of the Snake — one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac.
Observed by over a billion people worldwide, the major holiday, also known as Spring Festival, lasts for about 15 days and is filled with traditional activities. Take a look at how the holiday is being marked around the world.