Fun Ways To Celebrate Lunar New Year With Your Family

Lunar New Year is here, and it’s the perfect time to gather with loved ones, create new memories, and embrace the rich traditions of this vibrant holiday. There are so many fun and meaningful ways to ring in the Year of the Snake! From family-friendly activities to delicious meals and DIY learning activities! We'll share some playful ideas that are sure to bring joy, luck, and plenty of smiles to your celebration. Let’s make this Lunar New Year one to remember, together!

The dragon dance is one of the most exciting and meaningful traditions during Lunar New Year celebrations. It is believed to bring good fortune, drive away negativity from the past year, and welcome fresh beginnings. With its vibrant movements and joyful energy, the dragon dance represents strength, renewal, and the hope for a bright, prosperous year ahead.

"Let's Go Luna" introduces us to the Dragon Dance in an episode with the same name. While visiting Beijing, China, Andy learns about the exciting tradition of the dragon dance. Feeling down from some recent bad luck, he becomes convinced that a longer dragon brings better luck. He asks his friends to help him make the longest dragon possible.

In "George's Curious Dragon Dance", Curious George and his friend Marco help their new friend Lily practice a dragon dance for the Lunar New Year parade. They accidentally ruin the dragon costume's nose and race against time to fix it.

You can make your own Lunar New Year dragon puppet. Give it a shake and a twirl, and watch your dragon puppet come to life with every move!

Lanterns are a beautiful and meaningful part of Lunar New Year celebrations, symbolizing hope, light, and the brightness of new beginnings. During the festival, they are displayed to guide the way to a fresh start and bring joy to the community. The soft glow of colorful lanterns fills the night, creating a warm atmosphere. Making your own lantern is a wonderful way for the whole family to connect with this joyful tradition!

The rattle drum is a lively and festive instrument that's a key part of Lunar New Year celebrations. Its cheerful sound is believed to invite good fortune and positive energy for the year ahead. Make your own rattle drum to join in the excitement and add some extra joy to your family’s celebration!

Learn more Lunar New Year family traditions in this PBS KIDS article.

Find all the latest PBS KIDS shows, games, articles, and tips at PBS KIDS for Parents.