Lunar New Year began on February 1, but this isn’t just one night or day of celebrating, as it lasts for several days. In China, the celebration lasts 15 days, with the Spring Lantern Festival on the final day.  Above is Olivia, an au pair from China, with her host child celebrating the holiday.  Olivia and her host children speak in Mandarin together and hosting au pairs has brought not only traditions, but the Chinese culture to life here in the US.  Olivia tells GA:

Happy new year is super great importance for Chinese.  Several days ago was Chinese New Year.  My host family celebrated Chinese New Year for me.  I am so surprised. My host family kid put on Han clothes.  I sent to her as gifts when we first time met.  I also put on Qipao which is Chinese traditional clothes.  I really like it.  Every one I met yesterday said I am so beautiful my clothes.  After dinner I gave my host family kids lucky money because we always give kids lucky money in China at Chinese New Year.  That day my host family also gave me lucky money I am so surprised they know the Chinese custom.   I was so excited yesterday.  I really appreciate my host family, I really had wonderful time with them.”

Happy Year of the Tiger!  Learn more about Lunar New Year:

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/celebrations/article/which-chinese-new-year-animal-are-you-like

https://www.history.com/news/8-things-you-should-know-about-chinese-new-year

https://www.npr.org/2022/02/02/1077646928/lunar-new-year-federal-holiday