TODAY marks the start of Chinese New Year – a tradition rooted in the lunar calendar.
And with 2025 being the year of the snake, why not scale up your celebrations with a shindig at home.
Here’s how to mark the event without forking out a fortune.
RED ALERT: During Chinese New Year, it is tradition to kit out your home with red decorations.
If you have candles, a tablecloth or other decor in that shade, you could get it out.
Or perhaps you could have a go at making your own.
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Simply cut red paper into strips without snipping right to the ends, then twist the paper into a circle around a lampshade.
Traditionally, you shouldn’t clean your house on the first day of the Lunar New Year as you’re thought to be sweeping or washing away any luck brought in.
IN FOR A PENNY: Get right into the spirit of the occasion by giving loved ones red envelopes containing cash gifts, a tradition that symbolises good luck and wishes for the year ahead.
If you wanted to follow this custom, you can get your hands on a pack of six red envelopes and cards from Hobbycraft for £2. Just pop in a small coin and give these to your family or guests.
FAKEAWAY: Tuck into a New Year feast with Chinese-style food.
Tesco has a 12-piece Chinese selection, down from £3 to £2.50 with a Clubcard.
Loyalty members can also get sweet and sour chicken, down from £4 to £3.50, as well as egg fried rice and prawn toast, both down from £2 to £1.75.
Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s has offers for Nectar card holders.
A pack of spring rolls is down from £2.70 to £2.25, while Chinese duck with rice is down from £3.50 to £2.33.
Oranges and citrus fruits are also eaten to symbolise luck and prosperity.
A five-pack of oranges is currently down from £1.39 to 95p at Aldi.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability
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