Get ready to celebrate Lunar New Year—a spectacular, lively festival considered the most important celebration of the year for many cultures across Asia.
While in the United States we mark January 1 as the beginning of the new year, the Lunar New Year is observed on Saturday, February 10—this year.
I say "this year," because the Lunar New Year is not tied to a specific date. Instead, it begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice—which historically marks the arrival of spring.
To commemorate this festive event, the U.S. Postal Service is releasing the "Year of the Dragon" stamp. It is the 5th stamp in their 12-stamp Lunar New Year series and will be released tomorrow, Thursday, January 25th.
Combined with our limited-edition postcard, this postcard-stamp-combo is certain to be treasured by all who receive your postcard.
But wait—there's more!
Postcard + Stamp + Postmark = Whoa!
Complete your postcard-stamp combo with a commemorative "Year of the Dragon" First Day of Issue postmark.
Can you say "wow!?"
The USPS is once again issuing a commemorative First Day of Issue digital (color) and traditional (black and white) postmark.
Since we've highlighted First Day of Issue postmarks in previous newsletters we won't detail the steps here. (A how-to guide is linked at the end of this newsletter.)
"Hey Christopher, you're too late! There's no time to snag your dazzling postcards, grab some stamps, and get that sweet postmark in time for February 10th."
Great news! While the Western New Year is just one day, the Lunar New Year is one long party.
For instance, in China, the Lunar New Year spans from the first new moon to the next full moon, running from Feb. 10 to Feb. 24.
The Lunar New Year is a grand celebration, much like if we celebrated from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Imagine what fun that would be!
Bug Bounty Giveaway Winner
Lastly, congratulations to Barbara S. from New York who won last week's giveaway! She choose our Route 66 Postcard Set for her prize.
Thanks to all who participated. To our knowledge, we had at least two professional proofreaders and one software quality control specialist thoroughly review the website. Wow!
The issues found will help our website better serve our entire community of postcard enthusiasts. Thank you.
Here are links to the three P's discussed in this newsletter:
POSTAGE STAMP | Visit the USPS Store
POSTMARKS | Learn how to get yours
Don't miss our next newsletter. We have an important announcement regarding the paper used for our postcards. Stay tuned.
Make it a great week!