Celebrate Chinese New Year in Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon: A Family Guide

Hey there, wonderful parents of Hong Kong! Curious about how to make this Chinese New Year especially memorable for your family in Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon? You’ve landed at the perfect spot! Our guide will walk you through all the must-dos, local customs, and family-friendly activities for a festive season wrapped in joy and tradition. Let’s leap into the celebrations like a lucky lion dancer!

The Significance of Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, stands as the most important social and economic holiday in China. The celebration begins on the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar and lasts up to 15 days until the Lantern Festival. This year, Wong Tai Sin is ready to welcome you with open arms for an authentic cultural experience.

The Heart of Celebration: Wong Tai Sin Temple

Our first stop is the renowned Wong Tai Sin Temple – a centerpiece of festivity and culture. It’s believed to bring good fortune to all those who visit. Coming together under incense-infused air, families can pray for prosperity, health, and happiness for the coming year. Lanterns, red decorations, and traditional music set an enchanting scene that’s perfect for family photos!

• Kau Cim: Try your hand at Kau Cim, a method of fortune telling practiced in the temple precincts that involves shaking bamboo sticks from a container.
• Temple Fairs: Engage with local crafts, savor festive foods, and enjoy the live performances that are a treat for the senses.
• Worship Ceremonies: Join in on the ceremonial offerings and witness the rich tapestry of rituals that have been passed down through generations.

Remember to also dress comfortably yet respectfully, as it’s a place of worship.

Unmissable Family Activities during Chinese New Year

Gearing up for a day overflowing with joy and wonder? Think color, dragon dances, fireworks, and feasts. Here’s what’s in store for you and your little ones:

• Family Reunion Dinner: Nothing says Chinese New Year like gathering around a table filled with traditional dishes. Restaurants in Wong Tai Sin offer special menus that include must-have dishes like dumplings, representing wealth for the coming year.
• Lion and Dragon Dances: Keep your eyes peeled for the lively lion and dragon dances held in public squares. Watch as dancers skillfully maneuver through the crowd, blessing everyone with luck!
• Flower Markets: Visit the local flower markets where you can pick out blooms that symbolize good fortune and fill your home with their fragrance and beauty.
• Red Envelopes: Also known as ‘Lai See’, where children and unmarried adults receive red packets with money, send love and a token of prosperity to the young ones in your family.

Etiquette Tips and Customs for a Harmonious Celebration

Understanding local customs and practices is key for an enjoyable and respectful Chinese New Year. Here are some top tips to help you navigate the festivities:

• Greetings: Teach your children to say ‘Kung Hei Fat Choi’ – it’s the Cantonese greeting for ‘Wishing you great happiness and prosperity.’
• Out with the Old: Clear out clutter and clean your home before New Year’s Day; it’s believed to sweep away the bad luck and make space for incoming good fortune.
• Attire: Dress in bright colors – red is especially auspicious as it’s believed to ward off bad spirits and usher in good luck.
• Gifting Etiquette: If visiting friends or attending a celebration, bring along a gift like fruits or sweets; figure out ahead of time if you should arrive fashionably late or punctually to a T.

5 Things Parents Should Know in Preparing for Chinese New Year in Wong Tai Sin, Kowloon

With the festivities drawing near, it’s time to prepare your family for a spectacular Chinese New Year in Wong Tai Sin. Here are five insider tips to ensure a smooth and vibrant celebration:

• Plan Your Visit: The Chinese New Year period sees a surge in visitors to Wong Tai Sin, particularly at the temple. Plan your visit by checking the temple’s opening hours and the schedule for special events. Early mornings are usually less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
• Public Transportation: During the festival, public transportation might be busier than usual. Research available transportation options in advance and consider using the MTR, which is a convenient way to get to Wong Tai Sin. Make sure to reload your Octopus card for a hassle-free travel experience.
• Teach Your Children: Chinese New Year is a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about cultural traditions. Educate them about the story of Nian, significance of the color red, and the various symbols of prosperity. You can even make a fun at-home craft activity of creating paper lanterns or decorating with couplets.
• Weather Preparedness: February can be quite cool in Hong Kong. Dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather and ensure your family’s comfort throughout the day.
• Maintain Good Health Practices: During this period, the flu and other illnesses may be more prevalent. Encourage frequent handwashing, use hand sanitizer, and wear masks in crowded places to keep your loved ones healthy so they can enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

Preparing for Chinese New Year is as important as the celebration itself. Adequate preparation means you’ll have more time to relax, celebrate, and soak in the beauty and tradition of this wonderful festival with your family. Feasts, fireworks, and festive spirits await to make this Chinese New Year in Wong Tai Sin one you’ll treasure forever.