HOUSTON, TX – Lina Hidalgo joined many Houstonians in west Houston to celebrate Lunar New Year at the Teo Chew Temple.

Today marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse, which symbolizes energy, freedom and rapid forward momentum.

Today also marks the start of the 15-day Spring Festival, which will conclude March 3 with the Lantern Festival.

Families, community members and local leaders gathered at the temple to recognize the cultural significance of the holiday and celebrate Houston’s Asian American community.