Red decorations. Dragon dances. Lucky coins and special treats. The New Year brings color and excitement that kids naturally love.

But how do you help children actually understand what they’re celebrating? Crafts and games do the job better than explanations ever could.

When kids fold paper lanterns or toss coins into bowls, they’re learning through their hands. This guide shares activities that work for children of all ages.

You’ll also learn how to choose age-appropriate projects, what materials to prep ahead, and how to adapt activities for mixed groups. Let’s make this celebration hands-on, fun, and memorable.

What Is the Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year marks the start of a new year based on the lunar calendar. Families celebrate with food, decorations, and traditions that honor ancestors and welcome good luck.

Children enjoy this holiday because it includes colorful decorations, special treats, and exciting activities.

Hands-on crafts and games help kids connect with cultural traditions in ways that feel fun rather than formal.

These activities work well for children ages 3 to 10, with simple adjustments for different skill levels. Kids learn best when they can touch, create, and play.

Lunar New Year Activities for Kids

Now let’s look at specific activities that bring the celebration to life. Each one uses simple materials and teaches cultural traditions through hands-on fun.

Supplies to Prepare in Advance

Keep leftover supplies in a storage bin for future projects. Ask families to send clean recyclables like cardboard tubes or egg cartons.

1. Paper Dragon Craft

This craft brings the dragon symbol to life using basic supplies. Kids fold, cut, and decorate paper strips to create their own colorful dragon.

• Use construction paper in red, gold, and orange colors
• Add googly eyes and paper scales for texture
• Explain that dragons represent strength and good luck

2. Red Envelope Decorating Station

Children design their own red envelopes using art supplies they already know. This simple craft teaches the tradition of giving and receiving good wishes.

• Set out stickers, stamps, and markers for decoration
• Use pre-folded envelopes or help kids fold their own
• Share that red envelopes often hold coins or small gifts

3. Zodiac Animal Mask Making

Kids create masks based on the 12 zodiac animals, like the rat, ox, or tiger. This activity sparks conversations about personality traits and birth years.

• Provide paper plates, elastic string, and coloring tools
• Let children choose their birth year animal or favorite
• Encourage storytelling or pretend play after masks are done

4. DIY Lantern Craft

Paper lanterns add color to any celebration space. Children practice folding and measuring while creating decorations they feel proud to display.

• Use red or yellow paper cut into strips and folded
• Attach a paper handle at the top for hanging
• Display finished lanterns on walls or from the ceiling

5. Lucky Number Matching Game

This game uses numbers like 8 and 9 that hold special meaning. Kids match numbers on cards while learning basic math concepts.

• Create number cards with lucky numbers written or drawn
• Play memory style or sorting games
• Explain why specific numbers are considered lucky

6. Dragon Dance Movement Game

Children line up and move together like a dragon in a parade. This active game burns energy while teaching about traditional performances.

• Use a long fabric or paper dragon head to lead
• Play festive music and encourage wiggly movements
• Take turns being the dragon’s head or tail

7. Calligraphy-Style Writing Practice

Kids trace or copy festive symbols using thick markers or brush pens. The focus is on trying something new rather than getting it perfect.

• Offer simple symbols like the character for “luck” or “happiness.”
• Use tracing sheets for younger children
• Let older kids try freehand writing with guidance

8. Coin Toss Good Luck Game

Children toss paper or plastic coins into bowls for points. This simple game introduces the theme of luck in a fun, low-pressure way.

• Use different-sized bowls for varying difficulty levels
• Assign point values or small rewards
• Talk about why coins symbolize wealth and prosperity

9. Fortune Wheel Craft

Kids build a spinning wheel filled with positive messages or fun challenges. The element of surprise keeps them engaged and excited.

• Use paper plates divided into sections with a brass fastener
• Write fortunes like “You will have a great day” or “Do five jumps.”
• Let children spin and share their results with friends

10. Storytime Puppet Play

Children create simple puppets and act out a Lunar New Year tale. This activity builds language skills and encourages working together.

• Make puppets from paper bags, popsicle sticks, or socks
• Choose a short story about the zodiac race or family traditions
• Perform for other classmates or family members

11. Color-By-Symbol Activity Sheets

Coloring pages feature traditional symbols like lanterns, dragons, or flowers. This quiet activity works well for children who need a calmer option.

• Print pages with bold outlines and clear sections
• Suggest using red, gold, and yellow for authentic colors
• Offer as a wind-down activity or choice time option

How to Choose the Right Lunar New Year Activities?

Match activities to your child’s skill level for the best experience. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy simple tasks like tearing paper, sticking pre-cut shapes, or coloring bold outlines.

They need more help and shorter activity times. Early elementary children can handle scissors, follow multi-step directions, and work more independently.

They enjoy challenges like folding lanterns or writing practice. For mixed-age groups, set up stations where older kids help younger ones or offer different versions of the same craft.

A dragon craft might use pre-cut pieces for toddlers, while older children measure and cut their own. Keep expectations flexible and focus on fun rather than perfect results.

Watch for frustration and offer support when needed.

Wrapping It Up

These lunar new year activities turn cultural learning into playtime. Mix crafts with movement games to keep kids engaged and active.

Red envelopes, paper dragons, and zodiac masks create hands-on memories that stick longer than any lesson. The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies or hours of prep time.

Start with one or two activities that match your child’s age and interests. Watch how quickly they connect with the traditions through making and playing.

Ready to celebrate? Pick your favorite activity from this list and gather your supplies today. Try the paper dragon craft or red envelope station first. Share your creations with us in the comments below.