Gong Xi Fa Cai! Getting ready for Chinese New Year? Here’s everything you need to do to welcome the Year of Snake in style and prosperity:

Clean and Decorate Your Home

A fresh start begins with a clean space! Tidying up your home is one of the simplest ways to symbolize a renewed you for the year ahead.

Go through your belongings, declutter what you no longer need, and create a welcoming space for good fortune to flow in. Once you’re done, it’s time to bring in festive home decorations like red lanterns, couplets, and auspicious symbols to enhance the festive vibe.

Stock Up the Essentials

Most shops will be closed during the Chinese New Year period, and those that remain open may charge a festive premium. To avoid last-minute stress, make sure to stock up on groceries and household essentials well in advance.

Fill your fridge with ingredients for reunion dinners and festive gatherings. If cooking isn’t your thing, fast food can be a backup option—just be prepared for longer queues and limited availability!

Order Your Mandarin Oranges and Festive Goodies

Mandarin oranges are a must-have during house visits as they symbolize good luck and prosperity. Make sure to get yours 3 to 7 days before Chinese New Year to ensure they’re fresh and ready to impress your relatives.

While you’re at it, stock up on popular CNY goodies like:

• Pineapple tarts
• Peanuts
• Bak Kwa
• Nian Gao (sticky rice cake)
• Kueh Bahulu

Having these treats on hand will undoubtedly keep guests happy and your snack table festive!

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Refresh Your Look: New CNY Outfit and Hairstyle

“New Year, New Me” comes at a price, but it’s all part of the tradition! Updating your wardrobe is a must, no matter what you wear, the most important thing to remember is that your CNY clothing should be new and it’s encouraged to feature red and gold. So, dress in red!

Don’t forget to book an appointment at salons before their slots fill up for CNY. Remember, no cutting! It’s a big no-no— and that includes your hair and nails! Cutting your them during Chinese New Year is considered bad luck, as it symbolizes cutting away your fortune.

Get Your Red Packets Ready

One of the most anticipated traditions is giving (and receiving) red packets, or ang baos. The good news? Banks in Singapore usually give out free red packets, so be sure to grab yours while exchanging for fresh new notes.

When packing your Ang Paos, stick to even numbers as they represent good luck—odd numbers are generally avoided as they are linked to bad luck and mourning. If you have children, place the Ang Pao under their pillows. This symbolizes smooth growing process for the coming year. 

And while traditional firecrackers are banned in Singapore due to safety concerns, you can still join the festivities with sparklers or enjoy the grand fireworks displays at countdown events around the city!

Settle Your Debts

According to Chinese tradition, outstanding debts should be cleared before the new year to avoid carrying bad luck into the next one. Now is the time to do it!

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How’s your Lunar New Year preparation so far? Use this checklist to welcome the new year with a big bang!