Beyond January 1, New Year celebrations also in February and April.
AAAYA DC celebrated new year in January, February and April as we gathered to herald the new year across AAPI communities. Our diverse beautiful cultural celebrations follow many traditions, from both the solar and lunar calendars, marking different new year timelines.
Cambodian New Year in April
Cambodian New Year (or Khmer New Year; Khmer: បុណ្យចូលឆ្នាំខ្មែរ [ɓon coːl cʰnam kʰmae]) is the traditional celebration of the solar new year in Cambodia. Starting on Saturday, April 13, 2024 and running throughout the weekend, we joined the local annual festival at the Cambodian Temple. AAAYA DC met for a guided tour of the main temple and the stupa, with explanation of the different ceremonies that are held. We watched traditional Cambodian dances, and sampled street food from different vendors during the festival. On stage is the transition and inauguration of the "New Angels" who come to take care of the world for the upcoming year.
Lunar New Year in February
Lunar New Year (or Gong Hei Fat Choy; 恭喜发财) celebrations held at the local Child's Play toy store in DC included family story time with DC Mayor's AAPI Office, puppet making craft and a traditional lion dance performed by The Wong People Martial Arts. February 10, 2024 marked the start of the Year of the Dragon on the lunar calendar.
How did you celebrate New Year?
Are their other celebrations you would like to share? Reach out, leave a comment, and join us.
Mark your calendars, check back on the AAAYA Events page to RSVP for future celebrations.