10 Exciting Ways to Celebrate Chinese New Year at Home in Singapore

As the Chinese New Year approaches, Singapore's vibrant streets and bustling markets typically come alive with festive cheer. However, celebrating at home can be equally joyous and meaningful. Here are ten engaging activities to usher in the Lunar New Year from the comfort of your home.

1. Host a Virtual Reunion Dinner: Bridging Distances with Technology

The reunion dinner is a cornerstone of Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolising family unity. If loved ones can't gather in person, organise a virtual dinner. Platforms like Zoom or Skype allow families to share a meal, exchange blessings, and uphold traditions despite physical distances.

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Female housekeeper standing at home with cleaning product and mop

2. Engage in Spring Cleaning: Sweeping Away the Old

Traditionally, homes are cleaned before the New Year to eliminate bad luck and welcome good fortune. Involve the entire family in decluttering and organizing. This activity not only refreshes your living space but also fosters a sense of renewal and readiness for the year ahead.

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3. Create Handmade Decorations: Infusing Personal Touches

Adorn your home with DIY decorations such as paper lanterns, couplets, and origami dragons. Crafting these items together enhances the festive atmosphere and provides a creative outlet for family members of all ages.

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4. Prepare Traditional Dishes: A Culinary Journey

Cooking traditional Chinese New Year dishes like dumplings, yu sheng, and nian gao can be a delightful family activity. Exploring recipes and cooking together allows for bonding and the preservation of culinary heritage.

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Portrait of smiling girl wearing costume at home

5. Conduct a Home-Based Lion Dance: Bringing Tradition Indoors

While public lion dance performances may be limited, you can recreate a simplified version at home. Use costumes or improvised props, play traditional music, and let family members perform. This activity brings energy and excitement, especially for children.

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6. Organize a Red Packet Hunt: A Festive Twist

Hide red packets (ang baos) around the house and have a treasure hunt. This game adds fun to the celebration and allows children to learn about the significance of red packets in a playful manner.

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7. Watch Chinese New Year Specials: Entertainment for All

Many local channels and streaming services offer Chinese New Year programs, including concerts, movies, and variety shows. Watching these together can enhance the festive mood and provide entertainment for the whole family.

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Woman practicing japanese handwriting indoors

8. Practice Calligraphy: Artful Expressions

Engage in Chinese calligraphy by writing auspicious phrases or couplets. This practice connects you with cultural traditions and results in beautiful decorations to display around your home.

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9. Explore Chinese Zodiac Stories: Cultural Storytelling

Share stories and legends related to the Chinese zodiac. This activity is educational for children and offers insights into cultural beliefs and values associated with each zodiac sign.

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10. Set Personal and Family Goals: Welcoming New Beginnings

The New Year is an ideal time to reflect and set goals. Discuss aspirations and resolutions as a family, fostering support and motivation for the year ahead.

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By embracing these activities, you can create a festive and meaningful Chinese New Year celebration at home in Singapore, honoring traditions while adapting to current circumstances.