Loud fireworks sparked into the air while confetti fell to the ground Wednesday in San Francisco's Chinatown. The city is celebrating the start of the Lunar New Year. "It is going to be so transformative in our fortune,

Lunar New Year parade isn't until Feb. 15, but that doesn't mean the festivities are on hold. Here's what you can look forward to as San Francisco ushers in the Year of the Wood Snake. 👯 Kick off celebrations at the Chinese New Year Day opening ceremony,

San Diego's Lunar New Year celebrations started with a festival in City Heights last weekend, but there are more ways to ring in the Year of the Wood Snake. The big picture: The holiday, also known as Chinese New Year,

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of a calendar year with months based on moon cycles, and is cause for celebration for many cultures.

Though Lunar New Year celebrations may vary widely depending on where they're held, one common tradition is ushering in the festive period with family by enjoying dishes believed to bring good fortune and prosperity in the coming year.

Here's what you can look forward to as San Francisco ushers in the Year of the Wood Snake. 👯 Kick off celebrations at the Chinese New Year Day opening ceremony, where 100 students will perform synchronized dances for good luck.