Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is a time of renewal, hope, and celebration. It is a time for families and friends to come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional foods and drinks. It is also a time for prayer and reflection, as people visit monasteries to offer prayers and make offerings to deities.
In 2025, Losar falls on February 28th, marking the start of the Year of the Wood Snake. This year is believed to be a year of growth, wisdom, and transformation. Snakes are revered creatures in Tibetan culture, symbolising adaptability, intuition, and inner strength. People born in the Year of the Wood Snake are said to be wise, insightful, and possess a natural grace.
The celebrations of Losar begin on Losar Eve, when homes are cleaned and decorated. People prepare special dishes, such as Guthuk, a dumpling filled with meat or vegetables, and Chang, a barley beer. Families gather for a special dinner and exchange gifts.
The first day of Losar is a day of prayer and offering. People visit monasteries to offer prayers and make offerings to deities. Traditional music and dance performances take place in the streets, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The second and third days of Losar are for visiting friends and family. People exchange greetings, offer scarves, and enjoy traditional food and drinks. Games and sports are also popular during this time.
Even if you are not in Tibet, you can still celebrate Losar by learning about Tibetan culture and traditions, preparing traditional Losar dishes, attending Losar celebrations in your local Tibetan community, and sending greetings and well wishes to your Tibetan friends.
Losar is a beautiful and meaningful festival that offers a time for reflection on the past year, renewed hope for the year to come, and the strengthening of community bonds. It is a time to embrace the wisdom of the Wood Snake and to look forward to a new year filled with growth, prosperity, and happiness.
