If you didn’t know: In Eastern cultures, not just Chinese, the new year officially begins on February 10 (it changes every year, JFYI). Referred to as Lunar New Year, since it’s based on the lunar calendar, it marks the beginning of a multi-day celebration—that has a ton of symbolic and delicious food, red envelopes, and more—to invite prosperity and luck into the next 365 days.
To bring in the new year, cities and households across the globe
However you’re planning to celebrate, whether you’re hosting a party with your favorite guests or going out on the town, get in the spirit and welcome the Lunar New Year with these chic and fun decorations.
A Money Tree
We fully support using your green thumb year-round over here, but traditionally speaking, the Lunar New Year period is the perfect time to introduce this lucky plant into your space. According to the legend about this tree, it brings money and prosperity, so it’s a pretty popular New Year gift. I mean, is anyone opposed to more money and/or prosperity in their life?
Gold Ingots
Another great way to manifest some cha-ching? These small gold knick-knacks! Put a bunch of them in a bowl and show them off on display. Hoping your future is filled with tons of $$$!
Red Lanterns
People typically associate red lanterns (oval-shaped with decorative gold tassels) with the Lunar New Year as a way to symbolize the light of the coming year. There are some you can hang indoors with string, and others that float off outdoors with the help of hot air.
Floral Arrangements
Like food, flowers have meaning in Asian culture. For the Lunar New Year, you can select stems
Paper Cuttings
Those who celebrate often cut designs into red paper and paste them on doors and windows. Simple and cheap!
Wall Decor
Really get in the spirit of the Lunar New Year with some stunning wall decor. I already know this Chinese calligraphy piece will look gorge in your space.
Chinese Knots
The Chinese knot is a common decorative piece that involves a single strand of rope being knotted into a distinctive shape to represent unity and auspiciousness.
Zodiac Items
Lunar New Year is sometimes associated with the Chinese zodiac, which is based on a yearly rotation of 12 animals. This year, if you’re curious, is the Year of the Dragon.
Annabel Iwegbue is an assistant editor at Cosmopolitan who covers lifestyle, fashion, and astrology. Before joining Cosmo, she covered pop culture and entertainment for Harper’s Bazaar, The Knockturnal, and Black Film. You can check out some of Annabel’s work here and also find her on Instagram and Twitter.
