Lunar New Year festivals and prayers are marking the start of the Year of the Snake around Asia and farther afield.

While slithering into the Lunar New Year, Ohio University student organizations brought together and unified communities to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant holidays celebrated across East and Southeast Asia.

Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year — and 15 days of celebration and tradition. It's the year of the snake, and according to Chinese Association of Newfoundland and Labrador president Francis Tam,