Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year, are a time of vibrant celebrations enjoyed by families around the world. In 2025, we're stepping into the Year of the Snake, and what better way to make this occasion extra special for your little ones and not so little ones than with some fun and creative Lunar New Year crafts?
We've rounded up three easy craft ideas that are not only sure to provide kids of all ages 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 Snake in style!
 Barry Eastwood from Getty Images Signature via Canva |
DIY Paper Lanterns
Illuminate your Lunar New Year celebrations with colorful paper lanterns, a classic decoration that symbolizes prosperity and good luck. These are super easy and fun for all ages to make.
What you need:
- Red and gold colored paper
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
- String or ribbon
Directions:
- Decorate your paper with festive designs
- 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.
Another Option: Purchase pre-made paper lanterns and personalize them by painting meaningful Chinese characters like 福 - fú for good fortune, 喜 - xǐ for happiness, or 龙 - lóng for dragon. This is a fun way to add a traditional touch to your Lunar New Year celebrations while keeping it simple for younger kids.
 Canva |
Zodiac animal masks
Each year in the Chinese zodiac cycle is associated with a different animal. Celebrate Lunar New Year by crafting masks inspired by the animal of your birth year - or simply choose your favorite zodiac animal! Each family member can look up their Chinese zodiac animal and create a mask to honor it.
This year, it's the Year of the Snake! Use simple materials like construction paper, paper plates, paint, markers, and craft sticks to create your masks. Let the kids bring their own snake-inspired versions to life and enjoy a mini zodiac parade at home.
What you need:
- Construction paper or paper plates
- Paint, markers, or crayons
- Googly eyes - optional
- Scissors
- Glue
- Craft sticks or elastic
Directions:
- Look up your Chinese zodiac animal based on your birth year.
- Use construction paper or a paper plate as the base for your mask.
- Create features that match your zodiac animal - e.g., whiskers for a rabbit, horns for an ox, scales for a snake.
- Decorate your mask with vibrant colors, patterns, or googly eyes to bring it to life.
- Cut eye holes and attach a craft stick or elastic to wear it as a mask.
 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.
What you need:
- White paper
- Brown paint or markers
- Pink and white paint
- Small sponge or brushes
Directions:
- Draw or paint a tree trunk with branches using brown paint or markers.
- Dip fingers or sponges into pink and white paint to create blossoms on the branches.
- Let the art dry, then display it as part of your Lunar New Year decorations.
These kid-friendly Lunar New Year crafts not only keep your little ones entertained but also introduce them to the beauty and significance of this holiday. From glowing lanterns to personalized zodiac masks and cherry blossom art, these fun kids activities will make Lunar New Year a special time for your kids and family.
Happy Lunar New Year! May your year be filled with joy, wisdom, and prosperity.
 baramyou0708 via Canva |
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