By Gabriela Baron
Sunday marks the beginning of a new year — the Lunar New Year.
On this day, also known as the Chinese New Year, they bid farewell to the Year of the Tiger and welcome the Year of the Rabbit.
Referred to as the Spring Festival in China, the annual holiday is traditionally a time to honor deities and ancestors.
During this period, communities around the globe set up red lanterns, massive banquets, parades, as well as host festivals and fireworks.
Joining this year’s celebration is Google Doodle.
“Today’s Doodle celebrates an important holiday in several Asian cultures, Lunar New Year! As the first moon of the Lunar calendar each year, communities around the world set up decorations, make festive goods and gather with loved ones to usher in the new year,” Google Doogle said.
READ MORE: How Lunar New Year is celebrated around Asia
“This year marks the Year of the Rabbit, which is associated with peace and prosperity. The Doogle artwork is crafted from paper to honor Chinese paper-cutting (Jianzhi), which is a long-time Lunar New Year tradition,” it added.
The Doodle features a running rabbit made from traditional paper cutting surrounded by plum blossoms (symbolizing endurance and hope), and a bonsai tree (symbolizing harmony and patience).
Google is spelled out using lanterns, signifying a wish for a better future, and ang pao, the red envelope symbolizing a wish for happiness and blessings.