Lunar New Year Dos and Don’ts
Megan Michels
Lion dances are very common to see during the Lunar New Year.
Many of our students come from countries that celebrate Lunar New Year. Whether you're new to the festivities or have been celebrating your whole life, navigating the customs and traditions can be an enriching experience and a great chance to find togetherness with a different culture. Here's a rundown of the dos and don’ts of the day to help you make the most of the Lunar New Year.
Do:
Family Reunion: Embrace the spirit of togetherness by prioritizing family gatherings. Lunar New Year is about cherishing relationships, so reconnect with loved ones, share stories, and enjoy hearty meals together.
Red Envelopes: Participate in the time-honored tradition of giving and receiving red envelopes called Hongbao. Whether you're the giver or the recipient, these envelopes symbolize good luck and prosperity. Remember to provide them with both hands as a sign of respect.
Money is found in the lucky red envelopes. They’re also common gifts at weddings.
Decorate Your Home: There are several decorations you can adorn your home with to invoke the New Year spirit. Chinese knots, Spring Festival couplets, and window paper-cuts are popular choices for bringing good luck for the upcoming year.
Wear Red: Dress yourself in the color of luck! Red is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune, so don't shy away from incorporating this vibrant hue into your attire during the celebrations. If it’s a new item of clothing, even better! A popular red clothing choice is red underwear.
Respect Traditions: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Lunar New Year customs. From lion dances to temple visits, each tradition holds deep cultural significance. Take part in these rituals with an open heart and a willingness to learn.
Don't:
Paper cut outs are popular window decor during the Lunar New Year. The Fu character is one you’ll often see because it symbolizes luck and good fortune.
Avoid Taboos: Be mindful of superstitions and taboos associated with the Lunar New Year. Avoid negative words, such as "death" or "illness," as they are believed to bring bad luck. Instead, focus on positivity and good wishes for the year ahead.
Don't Sweep: On the first day of the first lunar month, sweeping the house and taking out the trash is considered taboo. Doing so is thought to sweep away good luck and prosperity. Instead, wait until after the third day to resume sweeping dirt and grime away.
Don't Break Dishes: In Chinese culture, breaking dishes during the Lunar New Year is highly unlucky. So, handle your dinnerware with care to avoid any accidental mishaps that could dampen the festive mood.
Avoid Debts: It's customary to settle debts before the start of the new year. Outstanding debts symbolize lingering financial burdens, so strive to clear them to pave the way for financial abundance in the coming year.
Limit Negative Talk: Keep conversations positive and uplifting during Lunar New Year gatherings. Avoid discussions about sensitive or contentious topics that could sour the festive atmosphere. Instead, focus on sharing joyous moments and creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
By following these dos and don'ts, you'll be well-equipped to celebrate the Lunar New Year in a manner that honors tradition and embraces the spirit of renewal and prosperity. We wish you a joyous Year of the Dragon!
Paper lanterns are hung in homes and out in the community to decorate for Lunar New Year.