New beginnings from around the world
I want to wish you a happy new year, and also take a moment to recognize some of the other cultures that celebrate their annual renewals outside of the Gregorian calendar.
Lunar New Year – Celebrated by billions of people throughout Asia and beyond, this holiday is based on the Chinese lunisolar calendar. Originally a time to honor heavenly deities and ancestors of one’s household, more modern festivities focus on gathering friends and family for feasts, fireworks and dancing. This year’s Lunar New Year will be Sunday, January 22, 2023.
Rosh Hashanah – Translating to “first of the year” in Hebrew, this Jewish new year celebration is similar to our American version in that it represents a time for making resolutions and planning for improvements to one’s life. No work is permitted during Rosh Hashanah. An important part of the tradition is the blowing of a ram’s horn, which is also known as a shofar. This year’s observance will begin at sundown on September 15, 2023.
Hijrī – Commonly referred to as Islamic New Year, this celebration begins with the arrival of a crescent moon. It offers a period of introspection for many Muslims, who use the occasion as an opportunity to mourn and reflect. Because the Islamic calendar is based on astronomical events, many organizations involved in observing Hijrī rely on local sightings of the moon to determine when it is celebrated. For those that use mathematical calculations, this year’s festivities will begin Tuesday, July 18, 2023.
These, of course, aren’t the only ways in which people around the world welcome the start of a new year. For a fascinating list of 11 New Year celebrations from cultures around the world, check out this article from Australia’s Special Broadcasting Service. I encourage you to engage with your local community and get involved in these celebrations throughout the calendar year. And as always, for guidance on your financial plan, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Christina Abbey, FPQP™
Vice President, Investments
Please note that our offices will be closed on Monday, January 2, in observance of New Year’s Day as well as Monday, January 16, in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Material created by Raymond James for use by its advisors.
