Luck, prosperity and health—
that’s what the Chinese New Year is all about. Jan. 23
ushers in the Year of the Dragon…and the 15-day celebration that focuses on bringing good fortune into your life. Couldn’t we all use a li’l more luck?
That’s what I thought! Read on for nine stellar ways to celebrate this lunar
holiday.
Clean your room
I know, I know—it’s not even spring yet and we want you to
clean your room. Hear us out, though, sweeties: Before the start of the New
Year, it’s traditional to clean the house to rid it of last year’s bad
luck.
Bring the outdoors in
Flowers are a symbol of new beginnings, to head out to your
garden, a nursery or a florist and pick up a fresh bouquet. Peonies and
Narcissus are typical choices, but any flowers will do. Get extra festive by
choosing bold red blossoms.
Light up the night
The 15-day New Year celebration ends with the Lantern
Festival. Head to a party store and pick up a few inexpensive paper lanterns,
or a string of paper lantern-covered twinkle lights. Decorate your room or use
them to illuminate a Chinese New Year shindig.
Head to Chinatown
Most cities have an area known as Chinatown that’s packed
with shops, grocery stores and delectable Chinese restaurants. Grab your girls
and hit the streets. Pick up souvenirs, take in a parade and crack open a
fortune cookie.
Rock a red lip
The most prominent colors of the Chinese New Year are red
and gold—red signaling life and gold, prosperity. Incorporate them into your
daily look with a cherry red lip, glittery gold eye shadow or glam accessories.
Take in a dragon boat race
Looking for a seriously fun outing? Whether you’re taking
‘em in with friends or fam, dragon boat races are a spectacle not to be missed.
Bundle up and get down to the river bank, babes, ‘cause you’ll be awed by the
incredible boats you’re about to see.
Hit the kitchen
Instead of ordering takeout, tie on an apron and roll up
your sleeves—it’s time to get busy! Look through one of your parents’ cookbooks
for a recipe you can handle mostly solo, though Mom or Dad should be on hand to
supervise your endeavor.
Perfectly polished
Got some red and gold polish? Perfect-o! Try a colorful
French mani (red nails with gold tips), or paint short nails scarlet and write
on the Chinese character fu, which means fortune.
Volunteer
In the Chinese zodiac, the dragon is the most powerful sign.
It symbolizes dominance, ambition, success, passion, courage and service.
Though Dragons typically work independently, they are quick to help those in
need. Volunteer your time in honor of the sign, sweetie.
How are you celebrating the Chinese New Year?
BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 1/22/2012 12:00:00 AM
POSTED IN new year's, redo your room, boredom buster, winter parties, get outside, winter