Lunar New Year is determined by the new lunar calendar, and while it can be referred to as Chinese New Year, is actually celebrated by various communities across Asia.

In 2020 its the Year of the Rat, signifying the re-starting of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals.

The animals of the Chinese zodiac rotate on a 12-year cycle, beginning with the Rat and ending with the Pig. These animals also rotate through the five elements wood, fire, earth, metal and water creating a 60-year cycle . The animal and environment elements are the two components that determine the dominant character traits of people born in any given year.

Many communities celebrate Lunar New Year with lion dances to repel bad spirits, the giving of red packets to symbolise good fortune, and family feasts that often feature specific foods such as dumplings, mandarins and lychee.

This year Lunar New Year falls on January 25, though festivities continue for many days.

Heres what Lunar New Year means to 10 Asian Australians.

Benjamin Law - Writer