Dear Laker Community,

This month, millions of people around the world will celebrate Lunar New Year, one of the most important and widely observed cultural traditions across East and Southeast Asia.

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the new year based on the lunar calendar and is celebrated across many cultures and countries, including China, Vietnam, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond. While traditions vary by region and family, the holiday is often a time for reflection, renewal, and coming together with loved ones. Common customs include honoring ancestors, sharing special meals, decorating with symbols of good fortune, and welcoming the year ahead with hope and intention.

In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, February 17, ushering in the Year of the Horse. In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse is associated with energy, confidence, perseverance, and forward momentum. These qualities resonate strongly with the spirit of learning, growth, and determination we strive to foster in our students each day.

At Windermere Preparatory School, we are proud to be an international community made up of students, families, and faculty from around the world. Learning about global celebrations such as Lunar New Year is an important part of helping our students develop cultural understanding, curiosity, and respect for traditions beyond their own. Through classroom learning, discussion, and reflection, students gain insight into the diverse ways people celebrate milestones, values, and shared humanity.

As we recognize Lunar New Year, we invite our community to take a moment to learn more about its meaning, reflect on the values it represents, and appreciate the richness of the cultures that make up our global Laker family. Celebrations like this remind us that while our traditions may differ, the themes of renewal, connection, and hope are universal.

We wish all members of our Laker community a joyful and prosperous Lunar New Year.