Commonly known as Chinese New Year, the Lunar New Year is celebrated throughout Asia.

THE LEGENDThe celebration is said to originally have been a measure to drive away a creature called Nien, which attacked villagers at the Yellow River basin on New Year's. The villagers fought back, knowing Nien feared noise, light and the color red. They struck drums and gongs, performed lion dances, used red paint and illuminated their homes.

DURATIONCelebration traditionally lasts 15 days, but in modern times it may last only three. This year it falls on Sunday.

WISHESThe Cantonese New Year is "kung hey fat choi," meaning "wishing you prosperity."

THE CALENDAREach year is governed by one of 12 animals — rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

YEAR OF THE TIGER• The tiger year is thought to be unpredictable and quick-paced.• Those born during tiger years are thought to be restless, love freedom and independence and dislike routine, pettiness.• This year the elemental sign is metal.