Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, is celebrated with grandeur and joy across the globe. While the festival has its roots in China, its traditions and customs have evolved and adapted to the cultures of various countries, creating a fascinating mosaic of celebrations. Let’s take a journey to explore some of the most unique and exciting Chinese New Year traditions around the world.

The tradition of cleaning the house before the New Year is an essential part of preparing for Chinese New Year. This practice symbolises the removal of bad luck accumulated over the past year while creating space for new fortune. In traditional Chinese beliefs, dust and dirt are seen as representations of misfortune, making house cleaning a spiritually significant act.

In Singapore, this tradition is highly respected by the local community. Most families start cleaning their homes a few days before Chinese New Year, ensuring every corner is spotless to allow positive energy to flow freely in the year ahead. This practice is also common in other countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, and China itself.

The red envelope, or angpao, filled with money is one of the most anticipated traditions during Chinese New Year. These red envelopes are typically given by married adults to children, teenagers, or unmarried relatives. The angpao symbolises a blessing for good luck, prosperity, and health in the coming year.

The red colour of the envelope carries deep symbolic meaning, representing good fortune and protection from evil spirits. This tradition is not only popular in China but also in countries with significant Chinese communities, such as Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Interestingly, in the modern era, angpao is often distributed digitally through payment apps like WeChat in China and PayNow in Singapore, while still retaining its symbolic value.

The lion and dragon dances are two traditional performances that serve as major highlights during Chinese New Year celebrations. These dances not only provide entertainment but also carry profound spiritual meaning. In Chinese culture, lions and dragons are symbols of strength, courage, and good fortune.

The lion dance is usually performed by two people wearing a lion costume, while the dragon dance involves a team manipulating a long dragon made of fabric and wood. In Singapore, Hong Kong, and China, these dances are often accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drums, cymbals, and gongs, adding to the festive atmosphere. Besides entertaining, the sounds are believed to drive away evil spirits.

In Singapore, lion and dragon dances are frequently performed in shopping centres, temples, and major parades such as the Chingay Parade. These performances symbolise the vibrant and hopeful spirit of the New Year.

Hong Kong, and China, these dances are often accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drums, cymbals, and gongs, adding to the festive atmosphere. Besides entertaining, the sounds are believed to drive away evil spirits.

In Singapore, lion and dragon dances are frequently performed in shopping centres, temples, and major parades such as the Chingay Parade. These performances symbolise the vibrant and hopeful spirit of the New Year.

Chinese New Year’s Eve is a moment eagerly awaited by Chinese families. The family reunion dinner, or Nian Ye Fan, is regarded as a time to gather, share stories, and strengthen family bonds. This tradition also provides an opportunity to enjoy various symbolic dishes.

The most common dishes served include fish, which symbolises abundance; dumplings, which resemble ingots and represent wealth; and kue keranjang (sticky rice cake), symbolising togetherness. In Singapore, reunion dinner menus often feature modern twists with the addition of seafood such as prawns and clams, while traditional dishes are more prominent in rural China.

In Singapore, the family reunion dinner is often followed by the unique ritual of Lao Yu Sheng, or the "prosperity toss", where family members mix the Yu Sheng salad together while chanting auspicious wishes for the coming year. This ritual adds a distinctive element to Singapore's Chinese New Year celebrations compared to other regions.

The National Museum of Singapore often hosts special cultural performances during Chinese New Year, including traditional lion and dragon dances. These performances are staged in a historic setting, adding a layer of cultural depth to the experience. Visitors can also explore exhibitions on Singapore’s history and heritage. For travellers from abroad, you can stay at V Hotel Bencoolen, located just 300 metres from the National Museum of Singapore.

Jewel Changi Airport is not only a transportation hub but also a lifestyle destination. During Chinese New Year, the Rain Vortex area often transforms into a stage for stunning lion and dragon dance performances, where the futuristic design of Jewel beautifully complements the traditional art form. For a seamless experience, you can stay at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, which is directly connected to Jewel, offering both convenience and luxury with easy access to the festivities.

Sentosa Island is a top destination for entertainment and leisure, especially during Chinese New Year, when vibrant lion and dragon dances are performed at key locations like Resorts World Sentosa and Siloso Beach. Visitors can enjoy these cultural spectacles alongside world-class attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore and the S.E.A. Aquarium, making it a perfect festive getaway. For convenient access to the celebrations, Resorts World Sentosa - Hotel Michael offers a luxurious stay right in the heart of the island, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

Parkway Parade, a bustling mall in the East Coast area, becomes a hub of activity during Chinese New Year, hosting lively lion and dragon dance performances that captivate visitors with their cultural charm. Its convenient location near East Coast Park also makes it ideal for combining festive celebrations with outdoor activities. For accommodation, Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong, a boutique hotel featuring Peranakan-inspired interiors, is an excellent choice. Located just a 5-minute drive from Parkway Parade and approximately 200 metres away, it offers both style and proximity for a seamless festive getaway.

The lion dance is an integral tradition of Chinese New Year celebrations. This performance symbolises good fortune, prosperity, and protection from evil spirits. The loud sounds of drums, cymbals, and gongs, combined with the lion's energetic movements, are believed to drive away bad luck and attract positive energy.

The lion, as a symbol of courage and strength, also reflects the spirit of overcoming challenges in the year ahead. This dance has its roots in ancient legends about a mythical creature named Nian, making it a cherished part of a rich cultural heritage.

Additionally, the performance elements of the lion dance involve vibrant costumes brought to life by two performers who skillfully coordinate the lion's head and tail movements. Traditional musical accompaniment adds to the festive atmosphere while reinforcing its spiritual significance.

A key moment is when the lion "eats" lettuce or oranges and then "spits" them out, symbolising the spreading of good fortune and prosperity. With its profound cultural meaning, the lion dance is not only a visual spectacle but also an essential ritual in welcoming the new year.

Celebrate the vibrant traditions of Chinese New Year across the globe, from the energetic lion and dragon dances to the intimate family reunion dinners. Whether you're exploring the National Museum of Singapore, marvelling at the Rain Vortex performances at Jewel Changi Airport, enjoying world-class attractions on Sentosa Island, or immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of Parkway Parade, Traveloka makes planning your trip seamless and enjoyable.

With Traveloka, you can find various offers and prices tailored to your budget and preferences. Easily search for your preferred travel dates and browse nearby hotels like V Hotel Bencoolen near the National Museum, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport for effortless access to Jewel, or Hotel Michael for the ultimate Sentosa Island experience.

Traveloka also helps you book flights and explore other tourist attractions, ensuring you make the most of your trip. Choose the best room that suits your needs, and enjoy a hassle-free booking experience for an unforgettable Chinese New Year celebration!