The end of January marks the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year, with 2025 ushering in the Year of the Snake—scaly, sly, slithering, and ssssensational. Those born under this zodiac sign are celebrated for their intelligence, enigma, and intuition.
At Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke, the occasion is met with vibrant festivities. On Feb. 1, the museum comes alive with the rich cultural traditions of this ancient custom. With flowing, colorful fabrics swishing and music swelling, performers wow crowds with their talents. Dragons weave and dance through the space with cheer, while dancers, musicians, and martial artists demonstrate their agility.
The exuberant celebration offers a chance to experience the traditions of Lunar New Year while strengthening homegrown community connections. As Cindy Petersen, Taubman’s executive director, says, “Lunar New Year is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the cultural traditions of our Asian friends and neighbors living right here in Southwest Virginia.” TaubmanMuseum.org
This article originally appeared in the February 2025 issue.
