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Lunar New Year celebrations: how to plan a party and observe traditions

Lunar New Year is the most important celebration in the Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean and many other Asian calendars. Here is how to plan a gathering that honours the traditions.

When is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year falls between 21st January and 20th February each year, on the second new moon after the winter solstice. The exact date changes annually. The celebration lasts 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. In 2026 Lunar New Year falls on 17th February (Year of the Horse).

Key traditions

Red envelopes (Hong Bao): gifts of money in red envelopes, given to children and unmarried adults by married relatives. Red represents luck and prosperity. Our free red envelope tags personalise each one. Reunion dinner: the most important meal of the year, with the whole family. Cleaning the house: before New Year to sweep out bad luck; no cleaning on New Year's Day itself.

Decorations

Red and gold throughout: red lanterns, spring couplets (duilian — paired poems on red paper hung either side of the door), tangerine trees, plum blossom, chrysanthemums. Avoid white and black — these are associated with mourning in Chinese tradition.

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Frequently asked questions

Is it appropriate for non-Chinese people to celebrate Lunar New Year?
Respectful participation and celebration is welcomed. The key is to approach with genuine interest, learn about the traditions, and avoid superficial or costume-based 'celebrations' that reduce rich cultural traditions to props.
Which countries celebrate Lunar New Year?
China, Vietnam (Tết), Korea (Seollal), Mongolia, and Chinese diaspora communities worldwide. In the UK, large celebrations take place in London's Chinatown, Manchester and Birmingham.