#United States #Boston #USPS #Lunar New Year #Year of the Snake

USPS Unveils Lunar New Year Stamp

On January 15, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) unveiled its latest stamp in honor of the Lunar New Year at the Boch Center Wang Theatre in Boston. This stamp celebrates the Year of the Snake, part of the Chinese zodiac, and is the fifth addition to USPS's acclaimed Lunar New Year stamp series. A total of 21 million stamps have been printed and are now available for purchase at various post offices and on usps.com.

The Importance of the Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year, a significant celebration in many Asian cultures, marks the start of the new year based on the lunar calendar. It usually falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which in 2025 corresponds to January 29. The festival, widely recognized as a time of family reunions, festive parades, and traditional meals, is celebrated by millions worldwide. It is characterized by festivities that include vibrant decorations, fireworks, and culinary traditions, all of which aim to welcome the new year with joy and prosperity.

Mayor’s representatives and notable community figures, including Tiffany Chu and Isabel Kim, participated in the launch ceremony, showcasing the event's cultural significance. Luke Grossmann, the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of USPS, emphasized the stamp series' role in celebrating multiculturalism in America. He expressed hopes that the stamp would bring health, happiness, and wealth to all who use it.

Stamp Design Highlights

The artistic vision for the stamp was brought to life by USPS Art Director Antonio Alcalá and artist Camille Chew. The design features a colorful snake mask, inspired by traditional lion dances commonly seen during Lunar New Year celebrations. The eye-catching colors of blue and green symbolize growth, vitality, and harmony while incorporating elements of luck associated with the snake. Chew's innovative approach blends modern artistry with the cultural heritage of the stamp's themes.

Moreover, this vibrant mask is adorned with golden leaves and orange blooms representing the joy of spring. Chew crafted the mask from hand-printed paper, utilizing cutting and folding techniques to create a dimensional effect. The final artwork is beautifully complemented by illustrated representations of the twelve zodiac signs, enhancing the overall festive aesthetic. The stamp reads “LUNAR NEW YEAR” in bold blue letters above, with “YEAR OF THE SNAKE” beneath it in golden hues.

Availability and Purchasing Options

The stamps are issued as a perpetual series, ensuring their value remains equivalent to the current rate for first-class mail. They are available in sheets of 20 and can be purchased through the USPS Postal Store or by calling their customer service. Additionally, authorized vendors on platforms like Amazon offer the stamp series, making them easily accessible for collectors and consumers alike.

The USPS's dedication to celebrating cultural diversity through this stamp not only pays homage to the Lunar New Year festivities but also reflects a wider commitment to fostering inclusivity in America. As a self-funded federal entity, USPS relies on sales of stamps and related products to support its operations, celebrating national traditions while remaining financially sustainable.

For further information about USPS stamps and related events, you can visit usps.com or their social media channels.

Conclusion

With the launch of this artistic and culturally significant stamp, USPS continues to honor the rich heritage of the Lunar New Year. As individuals around the globe prepare for celebrations filled with hope and tradition, the Year of the Snake stamp serves as a reminder of the vibrancy of community, the joy of new beginnings, and the cultural tapestry that makes up the United States.