# Celebrate the Year of the Dragon
Lunar New Year is the celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year - based on the lunar calendar and a solar year.
The event is celebrated by numerous cultures in various ways and on different dates. Some people celebrate for a day, others for an entire week! The most well-known and biggest celebrations occur in China, Vietnam, Korea, and other Asian countries. But it's also celebrated by diaspora communities around the world, including families here on the First Coast.
The Dragon is the fifth of the 12-year cycle of animals that appear in the Chinese zodiac, though it extends beyond Chinese culture. Those born in the "year of the dragon" (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024) are said to be destined for greatness and good luck!
Right now, you may be decorating your home with red and gold, making traditional food for family and friends to enjoy, or making plans to join a community celebration. Another fun way to celebrate - and a great way to teach the young ones more about their culture (or the culture of their classmates and friends) - is to read books from the Library!
# Book Recommendations for Kids
Jacksonville Public Library has an AMAZING collection of books featuring stories and information written by and about people from varied backgrounds, races, ethnicities, life experiences, and viewpoints. We love to share selections that demonstrate the range of our collection all year and we encourage you to explore these books with us!
Looking for more great reads? Get personalized recommendations from your library staff sent directly to your email inbox!
