How to Throw a Chinese New Year Party for Kids

With the holidays over and the promise of spring several months away, people young and old are eager to party.  Attract prosperity, abundance, success and good fortune by hosting a party during the Chinese New Year.  The celebration of the 2012 Chinese New Year begins on January 23rd - the Year of the Dragon.  The New Year is the most significant festivity of the traditional Chinese holidays.  The celebration lasts for 15 days and ends on February 9, 2013.  Traditions, rituals, and themes of happiness, wealth and longevity embody this holiday.

For instance, the new year is typically thought of as a fresh start.  People often get hair cuts or purchase new clothing.  Red envelopes are passed out during the days of the Chinese New Year.  These envelopes contain money - even two shiny pennies will do!  The red of the envelop symbolizes good luck.

People born in the Year of the Dragon are passionate, outgoing, brave and self-assured. On the flip side, they are also a bit foolish and impulsive and often act without thinking.

One important tradition for welcoming the New Year and creating good fortunes is to ban white at all celebrations.  In Chinese culture white represents death and mourning.  For instance, don't serve vanilla ice cream, lemon meringue pie, cake with white icing or anything with cream as a primary ingredient.

For more details on invitations, decorations, games, crafts, foods, beverages, treats and favors, please see the posts entered below.  Be creative and have fun!