Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is a significant celebration observed in many Asian cultures, including China, Vietnam (Tết), Korea (Seollal), and beyond. It marks the beginning of a new year based on the lunar calendar, which is tied to the moon's cycles. In 2025, Lunar New Year falls on January 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake.
Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Lunar New Year is more than just a holiday—it's a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and welcoming prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Here are some key ways to celebrate and participate in this vibrant festival:
1. Clean and Decorate
In the days leading up to the new year, families thoroughly clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make space for good fortune. Red decorations, like lanterns, couplets (traditional poetic verses written on red paper strips and displayed on and beside the front doors of homes), and paper cutouts, are hung to symbolize happiness and ward off evil spirits.
2. Enjoy Festive Feasts
Family reunions are central to the celebration. Traditional dishes, like dumplings (symbolizing wealth), fish (representing abundance), and sticky rice cakes, are prepared and shared. Each dish carries symbolic meaning, tied to blessings for the new year.
3. Give Red Envelopes (Hongbao)
Gifting red envelopes filled with money is a beloved tradition. These envelopes are given to children and younger relatives as a token of good fortune and blessings.
4. Attend Festivities
Join public celebrations like lion dances, dragon parades, and fireworks. These displays aim to scare away bad spirits and invite prosperity.
5. Reflect and Reunite
Honor ancestors with offerings and prayers, emphasizing gratitude and family connections.
Lunar New Year is a beautiful time to embrace new beginnings and share joy. By participating, you’ll not only celebrate but also connect with one of the world’s most cherished cultural traditions.
Wishing you a prosperous and joyful Year of the Snake! 🐍
We have created two limited edition bouquets to welcome in the Lunar New Year available for pre-order from Monday 20th January.
