Chinese New Year: Dates, Traditions & How to Celebrate

Chinese New Year, also called Lunar New Year, is the biggest holiday in many Asian cultures. It marks the start of the lunar calendar and brings family reunions, fireworks, and loads of tasty food. If you’re new to the celebration or just want a quick guide, you’re in the right place.

When is Chinese New Year 2025?

The 2025 celebration kicks off on Friday, February 7, and runs for 15 days. The first day is the most important – that’s when families gather for a big dinner, exchange red envelopes and visit temples. The following days feature parades, dragon dances and a lot of red decorations. Keep the dates in mind if you’re planning travel or want to catch any live events.

Key customs you can try

Cleaning and red decor: People sweep their homes before the new year to sweep away bad luck. After cleaning, they hang red lanterns, couplets and paper cuttings. Red is believed to bring fortune, so adding a few red items to your space is an easy way to join in.

Family dinner (年夜饭): The reunion dinner on New Year's Eve is the heart of the holiday. Traditional dishes include dumplings, fish, spring rolls and sticky rice cake. Each food has a meaning – fish for surplus, dumplings for wealth. You don’t need a fancy chef; simple boiled dumplings or a ready‑made fish dish work fine.

Red envelopes (红包): Adults give children and unmarried relatives a red envelope with money. It’s a symbol of good wishes and protection. If you’re celebrating with friends, you can hand out a small envelope with a token amount or a gift card.

Fireworks and lion dance: Loud noises scare away evil spirits. In many cities you’ll see fireworks displays and lion or dragon dances. Check local event listings – many community centers host free performances that are family‑friendly.

Special greetings: Instead of “Happy New Year,” say “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (新年快乐) or “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (恭喜发财) to wish someone happiness and wealth. It’s a simple way to show respect and get into the spirit.

If you’re traveling, book early. Flights and hotels fill up fast around the holiday, especially in places like Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore and Taipei. Public transport can be crowded, so allow extra time for commutes.

Even if you’re not in an Asian country, many neighborhoods host Chinese New Year festivals. Look for street fairs, cultural performances or pop‑up food stalls. These events are great for trying authentic dishes and seeing the vibrant parades without a long trip.

Finally, remember that the holiday isn’t just about parties. It’s a time for family, reflection and setting positive intentions for the year ahead. Whether you’re watching a lion dance on TV or sharing dumplings at home, the spirit of togetherness is what matters most.