The Lunar New Year is a time to celebrate fresh beginnings, honor traditions, and connect with loved ones. Rooted in centuries of cultural heritage, this holiday is filled with rituals and customs designed to bring good luck, prosperity, and joy in the year ahead.
This article is similar to our other post about Everything You Need to Know About Lunar New Year.
This article includes:
- Lunar New Year dos and don’ts
- Lunar New Year traditions
- Lunar New Year customs
- how to celebrate Lunar New Year
- NYC Lunar New Year events
- things to avoid during Lunar New Year
- Lunar New Year lucky colors
- Lunar New Year in NYC
- Lunar New Year things to do
- Lunar New Year what to avoid
Let’s get to it!
Dos & Don’ts for Lunar New Year
Whether you’re hosting your first Lunar New Year gathering or simply looking to honor the occasion, understanding the dos and don’ts of the celebration can help you fully embrace the spirit of the holiday.
The Dos for Lunar New Year
1. Clean Your Home Beforehand
One of the most important traditions is thoroughly cleaning your home before the New Year. This act symbolizes sweeping away bad luck and making room for prosperity. However, avoid cleaning on the actual day of Lunar New Year, as it’s believed to sweep away good fortune.
2. Wear Red for Good Luck
Red is the color of joy, prosperity, and good fortune. Incorporate it into your wardrobe with a statement red dress, a bold lip, or even red nail polish to celebrate in style.
3. Give Red Envelopes (Hongbao)
Red envelopes filled with money symbolize sharing blessings and good wishes. They’re traditionally given to children, unmarried relatives, and close friends.
4. Decorate with Festive Symbols
Add a festive touch to your home with decorations like red lanterns, paper cuttings, and images of the zodiac animal representing the new year. These items invite good fortune and ward off negativity.
5. Enjoy a Feast with Loved Ones
A reunion dinner is a cherished tradition. Include symbolic dishes like a special cake called nian gao (luck), mandarin oranges (luck), dumplings (wealth), fish (abundance), and noodles (longevity). It’s a time to bond over shared meals and express gratitude for family and friends.
The Don’ts for Lunar New Year
1. Avoid Wearing Black or White
Black and white are traditionally associated with mourning and are considered inauspicious during this festive period. Instead, opt for bright, cheerful colors.
2. Don’t Use Negative Words
Words like “death,” “sickness,” or “loss” should be avoided, as they’re believed to invite bad luck. Keep your conversations positive and uplifting.
3. Refrain from Lending or Borrowing Money
It’s considered bad luck to lend or borrow money during the New Year celebrations. It’s best to settle debts before the holiday.
4. Don’t Break Items
Breaking dishes, mirrors, or other items is thought to bring bad luck. If an accident happens, quickly say auspicious phrases like “Sui sui ping an,” which means “Peace and safety every year.”
5. Avoid Cutting Hair or Nails
Cutting hair or nails during the Lunar New Year is said to cut off good fortune. Take care of grooming rituals before the holiday begins.
How to Celebrate the Lunar New Year in NYC
Living in NYC offers incredible opportunities to participate in Lunar New Year festivities. From parades to cultural performances, here are some must-dos:
1. Visit Chinatown: Watch the iconic lion and dragon dances or shop for traditional decorations.
2. Attend a Tea Ceremony: Explore the art of tea while learning about its connection to the holiday.
3. Book a Self-Care Session at sundays Studio: Treat yourself to a festive red manicure to honor the occasion.
Self-Care Tips for Lunar New Year
The Lunar New Year is a beautiful celebration of culture, renewal, and community. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying traditional festivities in NYC, or embracing self-care practices, this holiday offers a chance to reflect on the past and welcome new opportunities with positivity and joy. Start the New Year with a focus on wellness and self-love:
- Set Intentions: Reflect on your goals for the year and write them down.
- Pamper Yourself: Indulge in a spa day, a relaxing yoga session, or non-toxic nail care to recharge.
- Embrace Gratitude: Take a moment to express thanks for the blessings in your life.
Final Thoughts
By following the dos and don’ts, you can honor the traditions while creating meaningful experiences that resonate with your personal style. Remember, this season is about cultivating good fortune, spreading kindness, and embracing growth.
So, slip into your favorite red outfit, decorate your space with festive touches, and surround yourself with loved ones. Let this Lunar New Year be the start of a prosperous, joyful chapter in your life. Warm wishes for health, happiness, and abundance in the year ahead!
Happy Lunar New Year! 🎉
Next check out our other post about Lunar New Year: What to Gift and What to do.
