Expat’s Guide to Chinese New Year’s Eve Customs in Hong Kong
Chinese New Year (CNY), also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in Chinese culture. In Hong Kong, the celebrations are vibrant, deeply rooted in tradition, and full of unique customs. As an expat, experiencing Chinese New Year’s Eve in Hong Kong can be both exciting and culturally enriching. Here’s a HK Florist guide to help you navigate and appreciate the customs:
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1. Reunion Dinner (年夜飯, Nin Yeh Faan)
- What it is: The most important tradition on Chinese New Year’s Eve is the reunion dinner, where families gather to share a lavish meal.
- What to expect: Families often prepare symbolic dishes, such as fish (for abundance), dumplings (for wealth), and rice cakes (for prosperity). Many restaurants offer special CNY menus, but they book up quickly!
- Tip for expats: If you’re invited to a reunion dinner, bring a small gift like fruit or sweets. It’s polite to try every dish and compliment the host.
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2. Decorations and Symbols
- What you’ll see: Hong Kong streets and homes are adorned with red lanterns, couplets (poetic phrases on red paper), and the character “福” (fú, meaning “good fortune”). Upside-down “福” symbols are common, as the word for “upside-down” sounds like “arrive,” symbolizing the arrival of good luck.
- What to do: Join in the festive spirit by decorating your home with red and gold items. Visit flower markets to buy kumquat trees, orchids, or peach blossoms, which symbolize prosperity and growth.
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3. Giving and Receiving Red Packets (利是, Lai See)
- What it is: Red packets (envelopes filled with money) are given to children, unmarried adults, and employees as a symbol of good luck and blessings.
- What to expect: If you’re unmarried, you may receive lai see from married friends or colleagues. The amount is usually even (odd numbers are associated with funerals) and often ends with the lucky number 8.
- Tip for expats: If you’re giving lai see, use crisp, new bills. Avoid amounts with the number 4, as it sounds like “death” in Chinese.
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4. Temple Visits and Prayers
- What it is: Many locals visit temples on Chinese New Year’s Eve to pray for good fortune, health, and prosperity in the coming year.
- What to expect: Popular temples like Wong Tai Sin Temple or Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island will be crowded. People light incense, make offerings, and seek blessings.
- Tip for expats: If you visit a temple, dress modestly and follow the locals’ lead. Be respectful and avoid pointing at statues or taking intrusive photos.
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5. Fireworks and Festivities
- What it is: While the main fireworks display happens on the second day of CNY, the atmosphere on New Year’s Eve is electric. Families stay up late to welcome the new year.
- What to expect: Streets are lively, and there may be smaller firecracker displays or lion dances in local neighborhoods.
- Tip for expats: Head to Victoria Harbour or Tsim Sha Tsui for a festive atmosphere. Be prepared for crowds and noise!
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6. Staying Up Late (守歲, Sau Seui)
- What it is: It’s a tradition to stay awake until midnight to welcome the new year and “guard” against evil spirits.
- What to expect: Families play games, watch CNY TV specials, and enjoy snacks like melon seeds and sweets.
- Tip for expats: Join in the fun by staying up with friends or hosting a small gathering. Try traditional snacks and watch the iconic TVB New Year’s Gala.
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7. Taboos and Superstitions
- What to avoid: On Chinese New Year’s Eve, avoid sweeping or taking out garbage, as it’s believed to “sweep away” good luck. Also, avoid using negative words or discussing unlucky topics like death or illness.
- What to do: Wear red or bright colors to attract good fortune. Avoid wearing black or white, as they are associated with mourning.
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8. Shopping and Last-Minute Preparations
- What it is: The days leading up to CNY are bustling with activity as people buy gifts, new clothes, and decorations.
- What to expect: Markets like Mong Kok’s Flower Market or Causeway Bay’s streets will be packed. Many shops close early on New Year’s Eve, so plan ahead.
- Tip for expats: Stock up on groceries and essentials, as many businesses close for the first few days of CNY.
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9. Lion and Dragon Dances
- What it is: Lion and dragon dances are performed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
- What to expect: You may see performances in malls, streets, or public spaces. The loud drums and cymbals are part of the tradition!
- Tip for expats: Watch from a distance if you’re sensitive to noise, but don’t miss this colorful and energetic display.
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10. Embracing the Spirit of CNY
- What it is: Chinese New Year is about family, renewal, and hope for the future.
- What to do: Wish people “恭喜發財” (Gung Hei Fat Choy, meaning “Wishing you prosperity”) or “新年快樂” (Sun Nin Fai Lok, meaning “Happy New Year”). Smile, be open-minded, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
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Final Tips for Expats
- Transportation: Public transport runs late on New Year’s Eve, but taxis may be hard to find. Plan your route in advance.
- Language: Learn a few basic Cantonese phrases to connect with locals.
- Patience: Hong Kong is crowded during CNY, so embrace the chaos and enjoy the unique experience.
Chinese New Year’s Eve in Hong Kong is a magical time filled with tradition, warmth, and excitement. By understanding and participating in the customs, you’ll create unforgettable memories and deepen your connection to this vibrant city. 恭喜發財! (Gung Hei Fat Choy!)
