Sonam Lhosar
Sonam  Lhosar is a New Year's day festival of the Hyolmo and Tamang people of Nepal as well as Sikkim and Darjeeling regions of India. It falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice which is usually the Magh Sukla Pratipada based on the eastern lunar calendar. Years are associated with 12 different animals - Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Eagle, Snake, Horse, Goat/Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar. Historically, the festival is celebrated after harvesting the crops. Activities
In Sonam Lhosar the Hyolmo people visit monasteries and stupas sacrifice themselves meanwhile special rituals with mask dance are performed to drive away evil spirits. The houses and surroundings are cleaned to welcome gods and goddesses. Beef, pork, chicken, mutton, fish, and sweet desserts are consumed in the Sonam Lhosar. Khapsey and Babar (kind of like chapati but made of rice) and Thongsey are mainly eaten in the Hyolmo Community. People wear traditional dresses and jewelry to participate in cultural events and exchange greetings with each other. Tamang Selo and the Damphu is played in the festival for dance. Syabru is a common dance in Hyolmo Community. 