Fresh Starts and Good Fortune: How to Usher In the Lunar New Year on the Causeway Coast

Let’s be honest: the first few weeks of the year have been a slog.

From the gloomy weather that makes even a quick nip to the Spar feel like an Arctic expedition, to endless political drama, we’re all in need of some good vibes.

After the chaos of Storm Éowyn, we could all really use a break and a fresh start. Enter the Lunar New Year, arriving on January 29th just in time to bring a welcome dose of hope, renewal, and (fingers crossed) good fortune!

Unlike the traditional New Year, which tends to leave us feeling a bit deflated once the festive season ends, the Lunar New Year is rooted in optimism, community, and a fresh outlook for the months ahead.

With its focus on new beginnings and simple Asian traditions to invite good luck, it feels like the perfect antidote to a stormy start to the year.

Whether you live in Coleraine, Ballymoney, Limavady, Ballycastle, or beyond, here’s how to embrace this special time of year and ring in 2025 with good fortune.

Do: Get a Trim (Yes, Seriously)

If you’ve been putting off that haircut now’s the time. A pre-Lunar New Year chop symbolises getting rid of bad luck and negative energy from the past year. But don’t leave it too late - cutting your hair during the first month of the Lunar New Year is believed to “snip away” good fortune. If you need an excuse for a trip to your local salon, this is it.

Do: Clean Your House from Top to Bottom

The Lunar New Year tradition of cleaning isn’t just practical; it’s deeply symbolic. It’s all about sweeping out the bad luck of the past and making space for new opportunities and positive energy. 

Dust away 2024’s cobwebs (literally and figuratively), but don’t clean on January 29th itself, as it’s thought to sweep away any good luck you’ve just welcomed in. Start early, pop on a podcast, and blitz that clutter.

Do: Add a Splash of Red

Red is a lucky colour in Chinese culture, representing wealth, success, and protection from negative energy. 

To bring some good fortune your way, wear something new and red on Lunar New Year. Whether it’s a cosy red jumper to fend off the Northern Irish chill or just a slick of red lipstick for the day, it all counts.

Do: Feast on Lucky Foods

Food plays a massive role in Lunar New Year celebrations, with certain dishes thought to symbolise luck, prosperity, and longevity. Stock up at your local supermarket or local fruit and veg shop to incorporate some lucky bites into your week. 

Tangerines and oranges, whose names sound like “luck” in Chinese, make for an easy addition. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at making longevity noodles, symbolic of a long life, or pop into a local Asian market or restaurant to pick up dumplings, which resemble gold ingots (a nod to wealth).

Do: Gather with Loved Ones

A reunion dinner is one of the most cherished parts of Lunar New Year celebrations. It’s a chance to connect with family or your chosen family over a shared meal, symbolising love, unity, and togetherness. Whether it’s a big sit-down meal with your partner or a takeaway feast with your besties, take time to gather with the people who bring you joy.

Don’t: Wash Your Hair or Take Out the Bin

While pre-New Year cleaning is a must, avoid any housework on January 29th itself. Washing your hair is thought to wash away the good fortune you’ve just invited in, and taking out the rubbish symbolises throwing out your luck. Treat yourself to a day off and let your home remain as it is for 24 hours.

Don’t: Speak Negatively

Stay mindful of your words during the Lunar New Year. Avoid conversations about sickness, death, or anything negative. Positivity is key, as is avoiding anything related to the number four (it sounds like “death” in Chinese). Fill the day with upbeat chats and laughter instead.

Bringing Lunar New Year to the Causeway Coast

Though the Lunar New Year has its roots far from the shores of Northern Ireland, it’s a beautiful opportunity to embrace new traditions.

Whether you’re sampling new foods, sprucing up your home, or sharing a meal with loved ones, the principles of renewal, good fortune, and community resonate no matter where you’re celebrating.

Here’s to a fresh start and a lucky year ahead - because we could all use a little extra magic in 2025!