7 Ways to Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Kids

Growing up in the suburbs of Boston, I was often the only Asian student in my class, and I looked forward to the Lunar New Year as an opportunity to share our cultural traditions (and my mom’s yummy cooking) with my classmates. Although I can’t share my mom’s dumplings with all of you (sorry!), here are some ideas to celebrate the Lunar New Year with your kids!

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1. Read Lunar New Year books

Bringing In the New Year by local children’s book author, Grace Lin, is a favorite in our house, and tells the story of a Chinese-American family preparing for the LNY. More children’s books about this holiday can be found on Amazon.

2. Make a Chinatown field trip

Mask up and support local businesses via a short field trip to Chinatown! Check out the Chinatown Main Street website for COVID updates. I recommend the pastries at Eldo Cake House.

3. Enjoy dim sum

Dim sum isn’t just brunch – it’s a unique cultural and educational experience. Jumbo Seafood (Newton) is a great option and is served by delivery apps like GrubHub and DoorDash. Not sure what to order for the kids? Can’t go wrong with char siu bao!

4. Get crafty

Search Pinterest for tiger crafts and there are some adorable options, like this Year of the Tiger paper craft!

5. Make dumplings

Sweet dumplings (or “tong yuen”) are a traditional Chinese New Year treat. The Dumpling Sisters have an awesome tutorial for how you and the kiddos can make your own at home.

6. Make red envelopes

In many Asian cultures, parents fill red envelopes with monetary gifts to bestow good luck to children. Teach your children about this tradition and hide a red envelope under their pillow on new year’s eve!

Red envelope tradition for Lunar New Year

7. Enjoy a local event

Celebrate the Lunar New at the Museum of Fine Arts on February 5! Proof of vaccination for visitors ages 12 and up is required.

7 ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year with kids