Spring cleaning, red packets and reunion dinners... we've got everything you need to know about Chinese New Year traditions in Singapore.
Yup, we’re a superstitious bunch here in Singapore. On a nationwide level, we don’t discount urban legends, we’re extra careful during Hungry Ghost Month and we believe in ghosts (kinda, maybe?). But when it comes to the most auspicious day of the lunar calendar, there are lots of traditions for Chinese New Year we can’t help but stick to…
14 Chinese New Year traditions in Singapore
1. Families gather for heartwarming reunions during the festive season
A significant meal that brings the family together, reunion dinners traditionally take place on the eve of Chinese New Year. But these days, people also host theirs a few days or weeks before CNY, especially if you have multiple gatherings with different groups of people. Some book Chinese restaurants or opt for catering services, while others prefer the cosiness of meeting up in homes with home-cooked food.
2. The all-important toss: Lo hei
Yusheng is an essential starter for reunion dinners and other CNY gatherings in Singapore. You’ll recite auspicious sayings while you mix the ingredients with your chopsticks, tossing them as high as possible for good luck. It’s a lively communal tradition as people tend to get excited shouting all sorts of “huat” (prosperity) phrases, and things will get messy as the toss reaches new heights. But it’s always loads of fun. Rivers of gold, folks!
3. Night owls, unite
After a huge reunion dinner, it’s common to stay up late at night, chatting with the family while waiting to usher in the new year together. Some say the later you stay awake, the longer your parents will live. Take this as your cue to spend time with the fam or indulge in a Chinese movie marathon and step into nostalgia.
4. New year, new clothes
In the past, colours like black and white were avoided for Chinese New Year because they were traditionally worn during funerals. Instead, bright hues were preferred – especially red. It’s considered to be the colour of luck and fortune.
But in this fashion-conscious era, all vibrant shades are a go – as long as the clothes are new (y’know, fresh beginnings and all). Just take a look at our gorgeous cheongsam haul for inspiration! But if you’re on a mission to be kind to the Earth, hit up sustainable labels, circular fashion brands or thrift shops instead.
5. Munch on CNY snacks
Seriously, CNY is your license to snack. Amidst all the prosperity tosses and pen cai delights, this is the one thing everyone anticipates at home visitations. No matter your preference, there’s something for you. We’re obsessed with love letters (crispy thin wafers), kueh bangkit (Nyonya tapioca cookies), bak kwa (dried meat jerky), and pineapple tarts (pastry stuffed with pineapple filling). Oh, and have you tried unique Chinese New Year snacks? Brands keep it cool with unconventional treats like mala pineapple tarts for a kick of spice.
6. It’s a time to give or receive red packets
It’s customary to give money in a red packet (called hong bao or ang bao) to your family, loved ones and co-workers – but typically only if you’re married. The amount varies depending on your income and your relationship with the receiver, but ang baos are generally a meaningful gesture, so don’t stress out too much over what you’re giving.
Also, regardless of how old the singles in your family are, they’re entitled to receive red packets. It’s a Chinese New Year tradition – and it pays to be single! Another tip: don’t forget your well wishes. And never give money in odd numbers or else you’ll be tempting fate. Even numbers = good luck.
7. Show off your stunning hairdo
Washing your hair on the first and second day of the new year is believed to be bad luck – it symbolises washing away your fortune. Not a very auspicious start to 2024! The same goes for cutting your hair. However, these days, not many people stick to such rules (not washing your hair in our scorching heat needs no explanation). But if you’re due for a haircut, hop over to the hair salon way before CNY to avoid the crowds and any surcharges.
8. Out with the old, in with the new
If you want to Marie Kondo the sh*t out of your home, now’s the time. Cleaning your abode and getting rid of old or unwanted furniture is also clearing your home of bad luck and welcoming new and good fortune. Plus, it’s practical ‘cos you’ll most likely be hosting visitors and you want your space to be spick and span. Tip: just make sure you do all the spring cleaning before CNY. Oh, and if you have stuff in good condition, donate them to local charities.
9. Admire vibrant lion dance performances
Believed to usher in good fortune and wealth, lion dance performances have been around for years and are especially popular during auspicious occasions such as new business openings and cultural festivals like Chinese New Year. You might hear the sound of the drums, gongs, and cymbals before you spot the troupe dressed in costume. The colourful showcase blends martial arts, acrobatics and music to create a stunning spectacle you don’t want to miss.
10. You sweep, you lose!
The act of cleaning during the new year is associated with sweeping wealth away. Taking out the garbage also symbolises dumping out good fortune from the house. So yes, this tradition is one fine excuse to avoid doing housework until after Chinese New Year.
11. Stock up on Mandarin oranges
“Kam”, the Cantonese word for Mandarin oranges, sounds similar to the word for gold. Having these fruits around the home during the Lunar New Year and giving them out in pairs is said to bring wealth into your life. Oh, and if you’re watching a lion dance, the performers will typically hand out mandarins, sometimes with lucky numbers written on them. Don’t make a rookie mistake and walk away without yours!
12. Be on your best behaviour
That means no swearing or gossiping about morbid topics such as ghosts and death. Try not to break anything, too. That includes drink glasses and ceramic plates! It’s believed to bring bad luck and misfortune to you in the new year.
13. Get your huat on at CNY events
We’re talking about CNY events like vibrant parades, dazzling lights in Chinatown, and malls decked out in auspicious decor. Soak in the festive vibes during the month and catch lion dances (just listen out for the sound of the gong), cultural performances and loads more.
14. Step into the new year debt-free
Want to start afresh in the Year of the Dragon with no strings attached to the past? Clear your debts (as much as possible). If you don’t do so, it’s believed that you’ll have a hard time accumulating wealth and might be “cursed” for owing money in the new year. Plus, settling your debts means you’ll be able to enjoy the festivities without a weight on your shoulders.
That’s all the Chinese New Year traditions you need to know in Singapore. Gong xi fa cai, everyone!
