Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is a time of vibrant celebrations enjoyed by families around the world. In 2024, we're stepping into the Year of the Dragon, and what better way to make this occasion extra special for your little ones than with some fun and creative Lunar New Year crafts and local events?
Local Lunar New Year Events:
- February 3rd Kid Makers: Embracing Diversity and Unity for All Ages at Redwood City Downtown Library
- February 4th Unlease the Lion Craft (REGISTER) at The Joy Culture Foundation
- February 7th Celebrate Lunar New Year: Little Ones Storytime in the Secret Garden at Children's Library in Palo Alto
- February 9th Celebrate Lunar New Year: Family Story Time at the Palo Alto Downtown Library
- February 10th Lunar New Year Celebration Free Second Saturday (REGISTER) at Gamble Garden in Palo Alto
- February 10th Lunar New Year Celebration at Palo Alto Art Center
- February 10th Little Bookworm Lunar New Year Celebration (REGISTER) at The Joy Culture Foundation
- February 10th Lunar New Year Special Craft: Dressing Up Dolls (REGISTER) at The Joy Culture Foundation
- February 10th Lunar New Year Special Craft: Lion Dance (REGISTER) at The Joy Culture Foundation
- February 11th Red Panda Acrobats at Belle Haven Library
- February 17th Lunar New Year Celebration at Stanford Shopping Center
- February 20th Family Craft: Lunar New Year Dragon Puppet (REGISTER) at Children's Library in Palo Alto
- February 24th Lunar New Year Celebration on Redwood City Courthouse Square
- February 24th 13th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration at San Mateo County History Museum
- February 25th 2024 Palo Alto Lunar New Year Fair at Mitchell Park Community Center
We've rounded up three easy craft ideas that are not only sure to provide your little ones with a creative outlet, but also give you an opportunity to introduce them to the rich traditions of Lunar New Year.
So, gather a few supplies and get ready to celebrate the Year of the Dragon in style!
 Maria Teresa Bellomo | Canva |
Paper Lanterns
Illuminate your Lunar New Year celebrations with beautiful paper lanterns. These lanterns are not only fun to make but also a fun decoration.
What you need: Red and gold colored paper • Pencil • Ruler • Scissors • Glue or tape • String or ribbon
Directions: Decorate your paper. Fold the paper in half lengthwise. Draw and cut evenly spaced horizontal lines 1 to 2 inches apart, leaving an inch or two at the top and bottom uncut. Unfold the paper and form a tube, securing the edges with glue or tape. Fold down the top and bottom to create open ends and secure them with glue or tape. Add a handle by punching holes on opposite sides of the top edge and threading a string or ribbon through to hang.
 Artem Podrez | Canva |
Zodiac animal masks
Each year in the Chinese zodiac cycle is associated with a different animal. This is the Year of the Dragon! Create masks using the theme of the Year of the Dragon and have a mini zodiac parade at home. Use simple materials like construction paper or paper plates, paint, markers, and craft sticks and let kids bring their version of a dragon mask to life.
 Core Lens | Canva |
Cherry blossom tree art
Cherry blossoms are a symbol of renewal and beauty during Lunar New Year. Create a keepsake cherry blossom tree art piece using paint and your child's fingerprints. It's a lovely way to add a touch of nature to your Lunar New Year decorations.
These three kid-friendly Lunar New Year crafts will not only keep your children entertained, but also help them learn about the rich cultural traditions associated with this festive holiday. Get creative and have a blast celebrating the Year of the Dragon with your little ones. Happy Lunar New Year!
