9 ways to celebrate the Year of the Dragon

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?

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by Brittany Taylor | 2/1/2016
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