Chinese New Year 2025: A Celebration of Tradition and Literature

Chinese New Year 2025 is here, millions of people around the world are preparing for a time of celebration, renewal, and reflection. This year marks the start of the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, grace, and transformation. It's a time when families come together, feasts are shared, and traditions are honored, but it’s also a moment for storytelling and the passing down of cultural values—something that literature has played a huge part in for centuries.

From ancient myths about the origins of Chinese New Year to modern-day stories, literature has always been intertwined with this holiday. Classic folktales like the story of the Chinese zodiac, the mythical creature Nian, and the customs behind the red envelopes (hongbao) are often passed down through books, enriching the understanding of the holiday’s deeper meaning. 

Contemporary authors of Asian descent use the holiday as a backdrop for stories that explore identity, culture, and personal growth. Novels, poetry, and even short stories set around the New Year holiday dive into themes like family reunions, migration, and the complexities of cultural heritage. These books not only celebrate the richness of Chinese New Year but also allow readers to engage with the nuanced realities of living between different cultural worlds.

In 2025, as we gather to celebrate the start of a new year, literature continues to be a bridge that connects generations and cultures, allowing the spirit of Chinese New Year to live on through words. Whether through picture books for young readers or novels that delve into deeper reflections on tradition and transformation, literature plays an essential role in preserving the essence of the holiday and sharing it with the world.

As the Year of the Snake begins, let us embrace the lessons found in these stories, celebrating the enduring power of family, community, and the stories that bind us together.

Here is a list of curated titles to help you celebrate!

Gōng xǐ fā cái,

Jen Webster

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