The first new moon of the lunar calendar officially ushered in the new year in many cultures Wednesday, marking the imminent arrival of spring and the first day of the Year of the Snake, which symbolizes good luck, rebirth and regality.

Firecrackers, parades and prayers are marking the start of the Year of the Snake around Asia and farther afield

Across the world, hundreds of millions of people are welcoming the Year of the Snake as they celebrate the Lunar New Year with fireworks, family time and festive dances. In north and Southeast Asia, from China to Indonesia,

This year, Lunar New Year begins today, Wednesday, Jan. 29, and ends Feb. 12. Lunar New Year, also widely regarded as Chinese New Year since the late 19th century when it gained global recognition through Chinese immigrant communities, is a centuries-old tradition rooted in the lunar calendar.

As the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac, the snake represents the "midpoint, symbolizing balance — or the need for it —in one's life."

Asian American communities around the U.S. and around the world are ringing in the Year of the Snake Wednesday, including in City. The Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival,

Many Chinese who work in bigger cities return home during the eight-day national holiday in what is described as the world's biggest annual movement of humanity.

Millions of pipo across Asia and di world dey celebrate di Lunar New Year wey dey happun during di first new moon of di lunar calendar. Na one important event in di year for many in Asia and some Asian communities worldwide,

Google is celebrating the Lunar New Year, marking the start of the Year of the Snake with a new Google Doodle game. Here's how to play.

Join the Austin community in celebrating the Year of the Snake with cultural performances, festive markets and special dining experiences.