As the 28th January 2017, the Year of the Rooster, draws closer and we prepare for some outstanding Chinese New Year celebrations, it’s time to embrace the festive spirit and go all out with dazzling decorations and keeping up with the Chinese traditions. Many don’t decorate for the Chinese New Year until New Year’s Eve, however the decorations within the house can be seen popping up around 12 days before the festivities begin. Whether you’re a pro when it comes to this exciting occasion, or you’re totally new to the décor and traditions, here’s a list of staple decoration features to ensure you have a year of luck and positivity.

 

Red Chinese Lanterns

 

Throughout this Spring Festival, Chinese Red Lanterns are the main event when it comes to decorations. Not only do they look divine with the stunning red and gold detailing, but they also keep bad luck at bay, which is a huge bonus. The Chinese New Year is a celebration of luck, happiness and positivity, and therefore, you’re sure to see these stunning red lanterns hanging from trees, offices, lampposts and even houses during this special occasion. Hanging these lanterns on the outside of your home will show passers-by that you’re embracing this wonderful celebration and keeping things traditional.

 

Firecrackers

 

December may be the month of wreaths and shiny garlands, but the Chinese New Year is all about firecrackers. Made out of shiny paper, you’ll find firecrackers hanging from doors, entrances and spread around shopping centres and parks. Firecrackers are used to lift the atmosphere, they create a bright, vibrant feel that can put anyone in the festive mood.

 

Traditions state that firecrackers were placed in the front of houses, when lit, and this was supposed to keep bad spirits away. The spirits would be frightened off by the bright, burning flame and the occupants were kept safe inside.

 

Oriental Plants

 

The Spring celebration of the Chinese New Year highlights the end of the cold, dreary Winter and welcomes the Spring with open arms. Plants and flowers are hugely popular throughout the Chinese New Year celebrations, as they resemble the life and spirit that the new year brings. Many of the oriental flowers have strong meanings, helping with the choice of which to decorate with for your home.

Bamboo is a plant that resembles luck. The Chinese adore bamboo as by placing this gorgeous plant in your home, you are introducing health, resilience and happiness to the surrounding area. Bamboo is also considered to be a magnet for positive Chi energy, which is essential in every home.

Orchids are another symbolic plant that is loved throughout the Chinese New Year, for its beauty, symbol of nobility as well as it’s gorgeous fragrance.