WHEREAS, The Lunar New Year, Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival is a major traditional Chinese holiday, falling on the 17th of February 2026 and the 1st day of the 1st month in the Chinese lunar calendar, and is also celebrated in many other East Asian and Southeast Asian countries; and
WHEREAS, The Lunar New Year honors the arrival of the New Year (year of the horse), bringing together family and friends, removing bad luck, welcoming all that is good and prosperous, and celebrating joy and hopeful wishes; and
WHEREAS, The Lunar New Year celebration in Philadelphia brings together communities from all backgrounds to share tradition, celebrate culture, and symbolize hope; and
WHEREAS, The year of the horse brings traits of energy, independence, and perseverance, as to be determined and forward moving; and using the color red during the celebration, appearing in decorations and clothing which symbolizes luck, prosperity, and happiness into the home for the new year; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s Asian American and Pacific Islander community is a vital part of our City, bringing together unique perspectives and experiences that diversify and enhance Philadelphia as a whole. Their presence is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the power of diverse voices in shaping our future; and
WHEREAS, As we celebrate the Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year, we embrace its spirit by appreciating the rich cultural tapestry that connects us and allows us to share traditions, happiness, and a stronger sense of community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes February 17, 2026 as Lunar New Year and recognize the cultural and historical significance of Philadelphia’s Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
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