Christmas has been and gone, and the memories of good food and good times are starting to fade as that back-to-work feeling kicks in, allowing drab and dreary January to take hold. However, celebrating the colourful Chinese New Year is just the pick-me-up you need to get back into the party spirit. What better way is there to enjoy this cultural holiday than with your fabulous flatmate pals? So, check out our ideas to celebrate the Year of the Rooster.
Get crafty…
Embrace the interior designer within (or maybe just your inner child) and make red decorations to adorn your house. Get together with your housemates and play around to create traditional Chinese decorations like door couplets, paper cuttings, and paintings with Chinese greetings and symbols.
Scoff “lucky food”…
Forget the trusty takeaway and, instead, get creative in the kitchen attempting a few traditional dishes together. Certain foods, like fish, are considered lucky. Make a feast of typical Chinese New Year foods, like dumplings, spring rolls and “good fortune fruits”, like tangerines and oranges. If it doesn’t go to plan, you can always have your favourite Chow Mien on speed dial.
Party like a Rockstar Rooster…
OK, we’re not quite sure how roosters party, but show them how it’s done by hosting your own party with your flatmates. Hang festive lanterns, play some Chinese music and serve some yummy Chinese finger food. Make sure your guests remove their shoes before they enter to encourage a smooth transition into the year ahead… and simultaneously save your carpet from dirty marks!
Movie moments…
If you feel like a less energetic activity, one where you and your flatmates can just chill, then consider a Chinese movie marathon. Watch some of Chinese cinema’s greatest exports and maybe even brush up on your Mandarin at the same time! Chose from popular martial arts favourites like ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’ or modern indie films like ‘Mountains May Depart’.
Although Chinese New Year is on January 28th, China’s Spring Festival public holiday runs from January 27th to February 2nd, so you have plenty of time to celebrate whenever it suits you best!
