Lunar/Chinese New Year - EYFS/Early Years activities, Displays and ideas

Tuesday 17th February 2026

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‘Chinese/Lunar New Year’ resources…


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  • Free Sample Resources

  • Core ‘Chinese/Lunar New Year’ Resources

  • About ‘Lunar/Chinese New Year’

  • Additional pages, topics & themes you may be interested in

Free Sample Resources!

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Please note that both Editable (docx file) and non-editable (pdf file) versions are available for all Chinese/Lunar New Year topic resources. (Editable files require Microsoft Word to work at optimum level and Non-Editable files require a pdf viewer.)

 

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About ‘Lunar/Chinese New Year’

What is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year is a wonderful festival celebrated by millions of people all around the world! It marks the beginning of spring and the start of a brand-new year on the lunar calendar.

Because it follows the cycles of the moon, the date changes a little bit every year, but the excitement is always the same!

How is it Celebrated?

  • Bright Colors: You will see lots of red and gold, which are lucky colors that represent happiness and strength.

  • Special Traditions: Families get together for big feasts, clean their homes to sweep away old luck, and give each other red envelopes (called hongbao) with chocolate coins or money inside.

  • Dancing Animals: Look out for the amazing Lion and Dragon dances! Performers wear giant, colorful costumes and dance to the sound of loud drums and cymbals to scare away bad luck.

  • The Zodiac: Each year is named after one of 12 special animals. Whether it’s the Year of the Rabbit, the Dragon, or the Tiger, every animal has its own special story!

Top Tip for Teachers: Use Lunar New Year to explore themes of family, new beginnings, and vibrant sensory play through music and color.

 

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