This Chinese New Year, which begins on Friday, marks the Year of the Ox.
The holiday is part of the lunar new year, which is a fresh annual start for many Asian cultures. But the celebration, which traditionally brings families together in large groups, looks different to some people this year.
Amid coronavirus pandemic restrictions, major cities range from Hong Kong to Melbourne to New York City canceled parades, festivals and fireworks that usually attract large crowds. People worldwide are therefore sharing on social media their own ways of celebrating the holiday, which is called Seollal in Korea, Tet in Vietnamese, Losar in Tibetan and Tsagaan Sar in Mongolian.
From dressing pets in costumes commonly seen in traditional lion dance parades to intimate family dinners, many people have found ways to change traditions and take social distance while still celebrating despite the pandemic.
In some of the posts, individuals without masks are seen or put near, as some Asian countries see infection rates that are low enough to relax or remove preventative measures.
In any case, gifts and good deeds remain an important part of the holiday.
Schools, landmarks, hospitals and even San Francisco’s famous trolleys have been decorated to celebrate.
Instead of street parades, some dogs continued the lion dance tradition.
Family portraits often fit into smaller frames this year, as dinners for extended family reunions are often replaced by more intimate meals due to social distance.
But food still took center stage.
Even if it was not always the meal they were hoping for …
People told on social media how they celebrated Tet, the Vietnamese lunar new year.
Korean social media users have posted images of food and gifts for their celebrations this year.
Suzanne Ciechalski and Caroline Radnofsky contributed.