We’ve just entered 2018 not too long ago but shopping malls as well as supermarkets are already putting up lights and lanterns to usher in the Chinese New Year.
As we approach the Year of the Dog, which symbolises faithfulness, diligence, and full of energy, the upcoming festive promises endless possibilities. The 15-day event can be an aggravation to some, due to the crowded shopping centres and busybody elders asking awkward questions.
While we can’t help you out with the latter, we can give you some useful tips in preparation for the upcoming New Year.
1. Get inspired with the CNY decorations
The preparation for the festive season usually begins a few weeks before Chinese New Year and it starts with decoration. But before that, it’s important to clean your home thoroughly to ensure the feng shui energy is clean and harmonious. The ubiquitous red coloured decor with the symbols of Happiness, Longevity, Prosperity are commonly hanged around the household to ensure a prosperous new year. Flowers such as Chrysanthemum, Lucky Bamboo, and Plum Blossoms are also highlighted in Chinese New Year home decor.
2. Make sure your shopping list is prepared with these items from your nearest supermarket
What is celebration without food? Snacks and drinks have become a staple for Chinese New Year. There are always endless munching, crunching, and snacking during visitations. We look forward to oranges/tangerines, cookies, and peanuts during get-togethers. Be sure to include the aforementioned items in your shopping list when you visit the nearest supermarket.
3. Up your #OOTD game with the latest fashion
The festive celebration wouldn’t be complete if you and your family don’t look the part. To honour the birth of a fresh start, many will opt for the auspiciousness of red and gold to win the favour of the ruling zodiac sign of the year. We wouldn’t be surprised if these fashionable outfits start selling out like hot cakes in local supermarkets soon.
4. The tradition of family reunion dinner
The Chinese New Year’s eve dinner (or the family reunion meal) is one of the most important aspects of this festive season. Several generations of family members will gather under one roof for a sumptuous reunion dinner. We know how tedious preparing these scrumptious dishes can be. Perhaps you’d like to purchase the German-Design Solaris Pro Cera Cookware (at 86% off) to ease your burden.
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5. Prosperity red packets
Red envelopes (ang pao or hong bao) are cash gifts given out to kids as well as unmarried adults as a symbol of good luck. Traditionally, ang paos are given from adults to children, and from married couples to singletons. From 1st February onwards, customers who spend a minimum of RM88 in a single receipt at Giant Malaysia will receive one packet of ang paos.
6. Impress the elders with CNY phrases
Instead of uttering the usual “Gong Xi Fatt Chai, Hong Bao Na Lai” or “Xin Nian Kuai Le (新年快乐)”, take it up a notch with these 5 phrases that will surely impress your aunts. We’ve taken the liberty to put the pinyin pronunciations and meanings here to assist you:
- 心想事成 (xīn xiǎng shì chéng): May all your wishes come true
- 岁岁平安 (suì suì píng ān): May you have peace year after year
- 年年有馀 (nián nián yǒu yú): Wishing you prosperity every year
- 合家欢乐 (hé jiā huān lè): Joy to the whole family
- 金玉滿堂 (jīn yù mǎn táng): May your gold and jade fill the halls
7. Roaring lion dance performances
The traditional dragon and lion dance have become an integral part of Chinese custom. Not only is it entertaining, but it also carries a symbol of good fortune. Usually performed outdoors and accompanied by drums and cymbals, dragon dances are performed by a team of dancers while lion dances are normally just a duo. For approximately 1 month, you can watch lion dance performances at selected Giant outlets in Malaysia.
8. Shopping
Yes we know, sometimes last minute shopping is inevitable. But fret not shoppers, local supermarket such as Giant will be extending their business hours. While most outlets are usually closed by 10pm – 11pm, Giant will be extending their opening hours for an additional 1 hour during the CNY season for you to get all that shopping done!
BONUS:
9. Enjoy festive promos and exciting contests
The best part of this experience? The closer to New Year’s Day, the better the discounts get! Plus, there are a ton of gift vouchers to be won. Stand a chance to win Giant vouchers worth RM1000 when you spend RM88 in a single receipt. You can also enjoy the free wrapping service when you personalise your hamper in Giant. Sounds like a win-win, no?
Happy shopping and have a blessed Chinese New Year from all of us at Hype Malaysia ;)
Featured image: PNG Tree.
