Preparations are unfurling for Lunar New Year. Here's what to expect from the Chinese Year of the Wood Snake
In 2025 China celebrates the Year of the Wood Snake
Celebrations for Chinese New Year take place at the end of January in 2025 as the Year of the Snake is ushered in.
According to Chinese astrology, there are 12 zodiac animals, each one with its own set of qualities. In addition, there are five elements with which each animal is paired, including metal, wood, fire, water and earth. This new year marks the Year of the Wood Snake.
So what can we expect of the wood snake? The snake is the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac calendar and represents wisdom in ancient Chinese tradition, while wood stands for growth and tolerance.
It might get a bad rap in many areas of the world, but the snake was once a venerated image in China, standing for mystique and beauty. Chancing upon a snake is still considered good luck by many. It’s believed that people born in the Year of the Snake are rational, calm, thoughtful and loyal.
The last time the wood snake was celebrated was in 1965, a year of both ups as well as downs. The Sound of Music premiered, The Beatles movie Help! debuted in London, Singapore became an independent state and US involvement in the Vietnam war escalated.
If the snake is your zodiac birth year, you can look ahead to an intense year with some challenges. Keep optimistic to transform these challenges into opportunities and good fortune.
Famous people born in the Year of the Snake include JK Rowling, Audrey Hepburn, John F Kennedy, Taylor Swift, Mohammed Ali, Ieoh Ming Pei, Jean Paul Sartre and Bob Dylan.
Lucky numbers: 2, 8 and 9.
Lucky colours: Red, light yellow, black.
Lucky directions: South and southeast.
Most compatible signs: Ox, rooster, monkey.