What is Chinese New Year and how can you celebrate it in the Workplace?

As January fades, another vibrant celebration awaits - Chinese New Year!

This festivity, also known as the Spring Festival, marks the beginning of the lunar new year.  While deeply rooted in Chinese and East Asian traditions, its festive spirit is embraced globally, including many offices nationwide. 

Chinese New Year typically falls between January 21 and February 20 following the lunar calendar. Each year is linked to one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, and 2024 welcomes the Year of the Wood Dragon. The celebration spans 15 days, with the most significant events happening on New Year's Eve (Saturday, the 10th of February) and extending to the Lantern Festival.

Bringing Chinese New Year to the Workplace

Infusing your workplace with the joy of Chinese New Year is a fantastic way to celebrate diversity and create a warm sense of cultural togetherness in your team. It doesn't have to be all formal and serious – there are loads of fun and festive ways to mark this special occasion with your colleagues. From adding lively decorations to sharing delicious treats and exchanging symbolic gifts, here are our creative and office-friendly ideas to bring a touch of Chinese New Year magic to your workspace:

Decorate the office: Adorn the workspace with red lanterns, banners, and artwork symbolising good luck and happiness.

Team luncheon: Organise a Chinese New Year luncheon featuring traditional dishes and drinks. Get in touch with team needi - they can organise lunch for you!

Red envelopes for recognition: Create a lighthearted version of red envelopes for employees, recognising their hard work and dedication. Use the chat button in the bottom right corner to order your red letters now!

Cultural workshops: Arrange cultural workshops or presentations to educate the team about the significance of Chinese New Year. We think an online tea tasting afterwards would be perfect. 

Lunar New Year calendar: Distribute calendars highlighting lunar events, encouraging awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity.

Festive attire day: Designate a day for employees to wear traditional Chinese attire or colours associated with the festival. We can even organise a stylist or make-up artist for you, just get in touch. 

Chinese New Year in the workplace is more than a celebration; it's an opportunity to create a sense of unity and appreciation for cultural diversity. Embracing these traditions can strengthen team bonds, promote understanding, and create a harmonious work environment. 

As vibrant red hues and lively festivities fill the workplace, let the spirit of the Chinese New Year inspire a year of collaboration, prosperity, and shared success. Gong Xi Fa Cai! (Wishing you prosperity)