Today, February 9th, 2016 is Losar, Tibetan New Year.
Losar is celebrated by Tibetan Buddhists and Buddhist center in the whole world. It is an important festival in Tibet, India, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Vietnam and Korea. The word Losar is derived from two Tibetan words ‘lo’ means ‘year’ and ‘sar’ ‘new’. The days before Losar, everybody is busy cleaning in and around their home, but also cleaning of the mind is done. After this cleaning, preparations start with typical, symbolic Losar objects to welcome the new year. These objects will be placed on the home altar which will bring good luck, good health and prosperity for the upcoming year. Of course also preparation of drinks and food has to be done, chang (Tibetan beer), sweet rice, tea, butter, cookies, sweets and fruit.
Losar is a festival which takes 3 days and which combines the spiritual with the secular practices: prayer, ceremonies, hanging colorful prayer flags, sacral- and folk dances. It is the most celebrated of all Tibetan festivals and presents a time of purification and renewal. This event is celebrated by the Tibetans with great enthusiasm. People greet each other with the blessing ‘Tashi Delek‘, which means in the context of Losar, good luck and prosperity. 
The Tibetan follow the moon calendar, that is why the date of Losar changes every year. Each year an animal is chosen as a symbol for the upcoming year: rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, bird, dog, pig, mouse, bull or tiger. Every animal is supported by an element: fire, earth, iron, water or wood. The gender, male or female changes every 2 years.
The year 2016 is in the Tibetan calendar 2143, the Year of the Fire Monkey. The monkey is lively, playful and loves challenges. Monkeys are resourceful and optimistic. They lack authorities, love debating and are quickly distracted. Children love monkeys. Fire monkeys like to take risks and tend to know better. Who is or will be born in the year of the monkey is witty, teasing and clever. Unintentional monkey behavior can hurt others. Friday is the lucky day of the fire monkey.
Tashi Delek!