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Chinese New Year (also known as Lunar New Year/Spring Festival/CNY) is one of the most important festivals in Singapore. It’s not just a time for family reunion but also an opportunity for businesses to show appreciation, strengthen relationships, and look ahead to a prosperous year.🌟In this blog, we will look at some popular traditions and activities that Singapore businesses embrace during this festive season. 🏮
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Chinese New Year Traditions for Businesses
1. Taking a Break to Celebrate
Image Source: Google
Many businesses close for the first two days for CNY, allowing employees to spend time with their families. This break isn’t just about tradition, it’s a way to start the year with a peaceful and hopeful mindset. Plus, it shows that the company values its team’s well-being.❤️
2. Decorating Offices with Lucky Charms 🐍🪭
Image Source: Pinterest
Red and gold are the go-to colors for CNY, symbolizing joy (red) and prosperity (gold). Normally, businesses decorate their offices with lanterns, couplets, peach blossoms, and zodiac ornaments (like Snake for 2025). Some even consult Feng Shui masters to ensure their office layout invites good fortune for the year ahead.
3. Giving Ang Pao 🧧
Image Source: Tourism Malaysia
🧧Red packets, (ang pow/ ang pao), are a must during CNY. Employers often give them to staff with auspicious amounts like “8” or “88” (because 8 sounds like “Huat,” which means prosperity). It’s a meaningful way to thank employees for their hard work and spread some festive cheer. Companies also share ang pao with clients and partners to strengthen relationships.
4. Lo Hei (Tossing Yu Sheng 捞生) 🥢
Image Source: 南阳商报
Lo Hei or tossing Yu Sheng, is a uniquely Singaporean tradition where teams gather to gather to toss a mix of raw fish (normally salmon), 7 colors of vegetables, and sauces while shouting auspicious phrases like ‘Huat lah!’ and ‘more sales!’ It’s a fun and ‘messy’ way to bond while symbolizing success and abundance for the year.
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5. Giving Festive Gifts 🍊
Image Source: Granny Doris
During CNY, businesses often send gifts to clients, employees, and partners to show appreciation. Popular choices include:
- Nian Gao (Sticky Rice Cake): the words ‘nian gao’ sound like ‘getting higher year on year’, and this symbolises raising oneself taller each coming year.、
- Mandarin Orange: given to symbolize good fortune and happiness. The word 瓯柑 (ōugān）, which translates to “mandarin oranges” in Mandarin, sounds similar to the words for “gold” and “wealth”.
- Gift Hampers: Filled with wine, snacks, and other festive goodies. These thoughtful gestures help maintain strong relationships and express heartfelt wishes for the new year.
6. Lion and Dragon Dances
Inviting lion and dragon dance troupes to perform at the office or shop is a common way to celebrate. These performances are believed to chase away bad spirits and attract good luck. They also create a lively atmosphere and can even draw attention from passersby, giving businesses a little extra publicity.
7. Prayers for Prosperity
Image Source: Bread et Butter
Some traditional businesses organize blessing ceremonies or visit temples to pray for peace and success in the coming year. These rituals provide a sense of spiritual renewal and a boost of confidence for the months ahead.
8. Dressing Up and Spreading Festive Vibes
Image Source: MGAG
During CNY, it’s common to see employees dressed in red, gold, or other bright colors that signify luck and joy. Companies might also host themed events, like CNY parties or team lunches, to foster a festive atmosphere.
9. Online Promotions and Customer Service
With e-commerce booming, many businesses launch special CNY sales, discounts, and giveaways to attract customers. Offering excellent customer service, especially in logistics and delivery, is key to standing out during the busy festive season.
10. Sharing Well-Wishes
“Gong Xi Fa Cai” is the go-to greeting during CNY, meaning “Wishing you prosperity!” It’s a simple yet powerful way to connect with colleagues, clients, and partners while setting the tone for a successful year ahead.
Chinese New Year is a time for businesses in Singapore to express gratitude, strengthen team spirit, and seize new opportunities. From tossing Yu Sheng to hosting lion dances, every activity is a step towards fostering stronger connections and embracing prosperity.
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