People of Tibetan heritage around the world celebrate Losar, the new year, which in Tibet begins on February 24 this year and is one of the most important holidays on their calendar.
Traditionally, people pray, meet with and get blessings from Tibetan lamas on the first day of Losar. On the second day, families greet the head of the town or village. On the third day, there is a public celebration with Tibetan food, drink and dancing.
On February 18, senior U.S. State Department officials came together to host a Losar celebration.
Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs David R. Stilwell reiterated U.S. commitment to preserving the unique religious, cultural and linguistic identity of Tibetans worldwide at the State Department’s celebration of Losar, the Himalayan and Tibetan new year.
“Losar Tashi Delek!” (Happy New Year!)
