ML Interest Tag: lunar

12 Easy Lunar New Year Projects for Kids

by Nikki Walsh

From money envelopes to dragons, here are the best Chinese New Year crafts for preschoolers and beyond

We’re squealing with excitement over the upcoming Lunar New Year. This family-centric celebration starts on the first day of the new moon on the Lunar Calendar, and we’ve searched high and low for ways to involve the whole crew. From paper lanterns and red envelopes to lunar calendars and more, find your favorite Chinese New Year crafts to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. We’ve also got fun dragon crafts for kids!

Toilet Paper Roll Dragon

Make this amazing dragon craft with the simplest materials. Tissue paper, pom poms, a toilet paper tube, glue, and googly eyes are all you need for this craft, but let your kiddo be creative and use whatever they’d like.

Origami Rabbit

Chinese new year crafts
Easy Peasy and Fun

It's the Year of the Rabbit! Celebrate the lunar new year with this adorable origami rabbit craft from Easy Peasy and Fun.

Chinese Lanterns

Happiness is Homemade

Light up your new year with these simple sparkle Chinese lanterns made from colored paper, jewel stickers, tape, and glue. Put them up in pairs, but remember—four is an unlucky number! If your little crafter is on a roll, eight lanterns strung together are lucky and bring wealth. Heidi over at Happiness is Homemade gives us the how-to-do.

 

Chinese New Year Craft Firecrackers

This Lunar New Year craft sparkles and shines! You can find most of what you need at home, but be sure to click the picture to see the details.

Related: 14 Asian Food Recipes You’ll Think Are Takeout

Paper Dragon

Allison McDonald via No Time for Flashcards

Your little reveler can bring good luck and have fun creating this paper dragon craft. It's easy to make with things from around the house: paper, paint, a rolling pin, bubble wrap, and googly eyes. Psst ... this can be an afternoon activity if you make a really big dragon! Get the step-by-step at No Time for Flashcards.

 

Lunar Calendar

Nikki Walsh

Since the Chinese Calendar is based on the lunar calendar with each month beginning on the first day of the new moon, have your little ones fill out the different phases to see where the New Year's month begins. You’ll need a calendar, circle stickers, and scissors. Find a quick tutorial, here.

 

Accordion Tangerine

Buggy and Buddy

Tangerines and oranges symbolize good luck and wealth for the new year. Your little moon can bring this bright and vibrant happy color into the house with this cute Chinese New Year craft by Chelsey at Buggy and Buddy. It’s easy to make with colored paper, brown yarn, scissors, and glue. 

 

Money Envelopes

First Palette

What tot can resist those red envelopes? Usually filled with money (of even denominations) and given out at the celebratory dinners, if you have time, you and your crew can make these little envelopes and decorate them too. We love the version from Sue over at First Palette because it comes with a printable template!  

 

Cherry Blossom Fans

In the Playroom

Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival, so what better way to celebrate than by letting your little artist finger-paint cherry blossoms on Chinese fans? Just grab some colored paper, a black pen, paint, and tape. The instructions can be found over at In the Playroom.

Calligraphy

Chinese new year crafts
Tinkerlab

Your little scribes may not be ready to master Chinese characters, but you can still introduce them to the art of calligraphy. Once you've gathered the basic supplies of a pen, ink, and paper, you can follow Rachelle Doorley's guide over at Tinkerlab.

 

Chinese Gong

Chinese new year crafts
Kid World Citizen

Get musical by making a Chinese-inspired gong, like this one from Kid World Citizen. You can even experiment with different pan sizes for different types of sounds. 

Chinese New Year Sensory Bin

Let littles get hands-on Chinese New Year-style exploring in this sensory bin. First, color the rice red to bring good luck (A quick how-to at Little Bins for Little Hands). Then add chopsticks, old Chinese coins, teacups, spoons, Lunar New Year sayings, red envelopes, and our favorite, a Buddha. Be sure to supervise toddlers while they enjoy this fun experience.

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The 10 Best Spots for Hot Chocolate in LA

by Jennifer O'Brien

Indulge a little with the best hot chocolate spots in LA that will warm your heart (and soul) during this winter-y cold snap

There’s nothing more comforting on a cold and rainy day (and we’ve had our fair share of those lately) than a cozy cup of silky hot chocolate—guaranteed to brighten your spirits and warm your soul. But when you’re looking for the best hot chocolate near me, any old, run-of-the-mill cocoa won’t do! We’ve done some Nancy Drew-level sleuthing to uncover the best of the best hot chocolate in LA and are delivering each, delicious cup below. Ready for the best hot chocolate ever?

Best Hot Chocolate in LA

1. Café Demitasse

If you’re on the prowl for some of the dreamiest hot chocolate in LA, look no further than Café Demitasse in Santa Monica. Known for their Liquid Lavender Hot Chocolate with a huge, toasted marshmallow for dipping, this cozy coffee purveyor is likely to become a regular stop in your schedule—especially during chilly winter months. Enjoy a cup in shop or make it at home with their Lavender Hot Chocolate Kit that comes with 8 oz. of hot chocolate, 5 jumbo marshmallows, and a vial of lavender extract. There’s a reason they are rated as one of the best hot chocolate Santa Monica has to offer.

1149 Third St.
Santa Monica
Online: cafedemitasse.com

2. Lady Chocolatt

As one of the most impressive chocolate shops around, it’s no surprise Los Angeles’ Lady Chocolatt’s hot chocolate makes our list. This Brentwood standout handcrafts their chocolates in Belgium and has them flown to the shop, garnering a devout customer following. Though chocolate candy is the star here, Lady Chocolatt’s dark hot chocolate is far from an understudy—it’s truly some of the most decadent we’ve tasted and may just change your life—it’s that powerful.

12008 Wilshire Blvd.
Brentwood
Online: chocolatt.com

3. Chokolatta

While there is no longer a favorite hot chocolate Beverly Hills location (it recently closed), Chokolatta is still open for business in North Hollywood. With traditional Hot Chocolate and a Spicy Mayan flavor made from the finest cocoa beans available, you can’t go wrong. And if that’s not enough, the shop also sells a selection of chocolate covered strawberries, bon bons, and other delectable treats.

5264 Tujunga Ave.
North Hollywood
Online: chokolatta.biz

4. Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar

If regular hot chocolate isn’t doing it for you anymore, stop by the adorable Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar in Pasadena. Their extensive hot chocolate bar features a wide variety of assorted flavors to wet your whistle, including white chocolate, peppermint, salted caramel, campfire, P.B. cup, cupcake, and more. And if you prefer your hot chocolate frozen, they can handle that too.

1383 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena
Online: lavenderandhoneyespresso.com

5. ChocoVivo

ChocoVivo’s single-source bean to bar chocolate is a one-of-a-kind experience. Featuring one of the best hot chocolate menus we’ve seen, customization is the name of the game here. Customers choose the style of drink they want – whether it’s sipping chocolate, hot chocolate, iced hot chocolate, mocha hot chocolate, or frozen hot chocolate. Next, pick your base from various types of milk or filtered water. Lastly, choose the type of chocolate you desire – everything from 100% Cacao to Mayan Tradition and more. If that’s not enough, they have a fantastic selection of desserts as well.

12469 W. Washington Blvd.
Culver City
Online: chocovivo.com

6. La Monarca Bakery

La Monarca is always top of mind when Angelenos want to grab some mind-blowing Mexican pastries, but they also deliver the best Mexican hot chocolate Los Angeles has to offer. What starts with fair trade cacao ground in house, ends with a totally unique hot chocolate that’s both foamy and cinnamon-y with a kick. Or try the Champurrado—a delicious thick version of Mexican Hot Chocolate that pairs great with an order of conchas. You can also purchase containers of both mixes to go.

12 Locations across LA
Online: lamonarcabakery.com

7. Guelaguetza

Regarded by many critics as one of the best restaurants in the country, Guelaguetza isn’t just killing it at the food game, but the hot chocolate game as well. If you’re going grab a bite at this beloved dining star, don’t dare leave without trying their Mexican Hot Chocolate. Rich and creamy to the last sip, this is some of the tastiest artisanal Oaxacan chocolate you’ll ever have. They also have a hot chocolate gift set available for purchase so you can recreate the experience at home.

3014 W. Olympic Blvd.
Koreatown
Online: ilovemole.com

8. Churros Calientes

If you find yourself in West LA, Churros Caliente is well worth a stop. Their delicious Spanish style hot chocolate is even better with a side of the most mouthwatering churros this side of Madrid.

11521 Santa Monica Blvd.
West LA
Online: churroscalientes.com

9. Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Not only does the Hollywood Walk of Fame have Spiderman, Darth Vader, and a disheveled Elmo, but it also has some of the best hot chocolate in Tinseltown. Famed Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop features everything from Classic and Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa to Frozen Hot Cocoa and Decadent Drinking Chocolate. And if you happen to load up on some of those dreamy little chocolate squares during your visit, we’ll never tell.

6834 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood
Online: ghirardelli.com

10. Bardonna

While you won’t find it on their online menu, for those in-the-know, Bardonna on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica is one of the best places to get hot chocolate. Their one-of-a-kind hot chocolate bombs will delight both kids and adults alike—not to mention, a favorite spot to grab brunch (to balance out that sugar rush).

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6 Lunar New Year Traditions the Whole Family Can Enjoy

by Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

Fireworks and noodle soup are two fun Lunar New Year traditions for families

Whether it’s called Chinese New Year, Seollal, Shōgatsu, or Tết, Lunar New Year (running officially from New Year’s Eve on Jan 22. through Feb. 5) is a special holiday for more than 1.6 billion people of Asian descent across the globe. Think of it as a cross between the Fourth of July, Passover, Christmas, and the biggest birthday bash ever—all rolled into one. There are some essential customs that many people hold dear, and each one revolves around family, food, fortune, and fun; these Lunar New Year traditions will help you teach your kids about this important holiday.

Prepare for the Lunar New Year

Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

Although it happens in the middle of winter, Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival in many Asian countries. As such, it’s also a time when many families prepare for the new year (and the coming spring) with major house cleaning. Asian superstition dictates that household organization extends to finances too, which means paying off or collecting debts before the new year.

In addition to decorating the house with red paper cutouts and banners—particularly rabbit-themed decorations in 2023—during this festive time, a fun activity to do with kids is folding origami boxes and putting small lights in them as a way to remember ancestors and wish for good luck in the coming year.

Pro-tip: Plan to do housekeeping before the new year commences. Many celebrants believe that sweeping around the house on Lunar New Year’s Day is akin to sweeping away all of your good luck for the year!

Have Some Noodle Soup

Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

There are many different traditional dishes that are enjoyed during Lunar New Year, but one of the most common dishes served across Asian countries during the holiday is a bowl of noodle soup. On Lunar New Year’s Eve and Day, families often eat handmade wheat noodles in a savory broth that includes vegetables and hard-boiled eggs. Long noodles represent longevity and long life, while eggs symbolize rebirth and starting anew.

Pro-tip: Don’t cut the noodles! Slurping is OK and expected. Also, it’s traditional to serve elders and the little ones before serving yourself.

Mo’ Money, Mo’ Fortunes

Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

During Lunar New Year, kids may receive festively decorated red envelopes that are filled with “lucky money,” along with written notes wishing them health, happiness, and success. Known as lai see (Cantonese), ang pao (Hokkien) or hong bao (Mandarin), these red packets also are given during other holidays and special occasions. Increasingly, money is given via red envelope mobile payment apps in many parts of Asia.

Pro-tip: While the amount of cash isn’t as important as the intent behind the gift, many Asian people believe the number or denomination is very important, so you’ll want to make sure you’re putting a “lucky” number inside the red envelopes. Also, make sure to include clean, crisp bills because no one wants to start the new year with crumpled cash.

Related: 12 Easy Lunar New Year Projects for Kids

Find the Fireworks

Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

While many people in America set off fireworks that light up the night sky only during Fourth of July celebrations, firecrackers are the noisemakers of choice for those who commemorate Lunar New Year. Traditionally, the sounds from the small explosions are meant to drive away evil spirits, while strings of firecrackers are invariably red, which is an auspicious and lucky color.

Pro-tip: Since most places require special permits or have banned fireworks and firecrackers outright, take the kiddos to your city or town’s Chinatown, which often has firecracker displays and lion dances during the weeks of the Lunar New Year. Alternately, ringing bells to usher in the Lunar New Year is a perfectly acceptable way to ward off evil spirits this time of year. Plus, you’ll have an excuse to use those jingle bells left over from Christmas.

Dress for Success for Lunar New Year

Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

Dressing in bright colors—especially in red—is common practice during Lunar New Year. Revelers wear their fanciest duds as a way to scare away evil spirits and invite good fortune to them. Some devotees will even go as far as wearing red underpants! Wearing new clothes from head to toe also symbolizes new beginnings for the new year, and wearing something red is the luckiest color of them all.

Pro-tip: Red looks good on everybody.

Take a Family Photo

Kipp Jarecke-Cheng

Most importantly, Lunar New Year is about spending time and celebrating with family and loved ones. For many Asian families, Lunar New Year is the one time in the year when entire extended families get to see each other, so it’s the perfect opportunity to snap an annual family portrait. If you live far away from relatives, this might not be possible, so try other ways to stay connected like these sweet ideas for keeping in touch with grandparents from a distance. 

Pro-tip: Your family portrait shouldn’t be too staged or too pose-y. It’s a celebration. Have fun!

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Celebrate Lunar New Year in San Francisco 2023

by Christine Lai

The Lunar New Year begins Sunday January 22 and kicks off 15 days of colorful celebrations perfect for family fun

Lunar New Year is here! Often called Chinese New Year, it is also celebrated by Vietnamese and South Korean cultures and this year rings in the year of the rabbit. According to an interview in Seventeen Magazine, Dottie Li, cultural expert and the voice of Rosetta Stone Mandarin, says, “The Year of the Rabbit 兔年 symbolizes longevity, positivity, auspiciousness, wittiness, cautiousness, cleverness, deftness and self-protection.” She adds that the new year brings new fortunes, and in 2023, people can expect prosperity, hope, and calm. “Because of the rabbit’s characteristics, we can expect relaxation, fluidity, quietness and contemplation,” Li said in the article. And how fun is this? Six, life-sized rabbits can be found on display around San Francisco—see if your family can find them all!

Chinese New Year Celebrations in San Francisco

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Lunar New Year Storytime at South San Francisco Main Library

Jan. 12: Join Ms. Maggie and special guest, Oliver Chin, for a Lunar New Year themed storytime! Event details.

Chinese New Year Flower Market Fair

Jan. 14 & 15: The weekend before the new lunar year is celebrated, families traditionally hit up stores for supplies for the big celebration. More than 120 vendors will be on hand at the market fair showcasing plants, fruits, flowers, candy and other delights while performances from magicians, acrobats, drummers and folk dancers entertain shoppers. Event details.

Lunar New Year Performances at the Ferry Building

Jan. 22: Find the Chung Ngai Lion Dancers and Helen Dance Academy outside and throughout the Marketplace from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Also don't miss the calligraphy demonstration and receive a personalized red paper scroll with Lunar New year well wishes. Event details.

Chinese New Year’s Day Parade

Feb. 4: The largest Lunar New year celebration outside of Asia, San Francisco’s Chinese New Year Parade pulls out all the stops in its illuminated parade. Revelers will enjoy colorful floats, dazzling costumes, stilt walkers, lion dancers and the newly crowned Miss Chinatown USA. Another highlight is  the famous Golden Dragon, “Gum Lung”, requiring about 180 handlers for its 268-foot length. The parade starts on Market Street and reserved bleacher seats are also available for purchase. Event details.

Lunar New Year Community Street Fair

Feb. 4 & 5: The most exciting time of the year in Chinatown is when Lunar New Year is celebrated! Vendors, giant puppets, family activities and live performances will all be on hand so bring the entire family down. Event details.

Lunar New Year: Year of the Rabbit with the San Francisco Symphony

Feb. 5: Celebrate Lunar New Year with the San Francisco Symphony at this vibrant event that draws upon Asian traditions, past and present with Earl Lee as the conductor of the Orchestra. Event details.

Chinese New Year Celebrations in the East Bay

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Lunar New Year Celebrations at Jack London Square

Jan. 21: This free, family-friendly event celebration will include martial art demonstrations, lion dancers, giveaways and a rabbit craft for kids. Event details.

22nd Annual Lunar New Year at OMCA: Year of the Rabbit

Jan. 29: Ring in the lunar new year with family-friendly cultural performances, story time with author Olive Chin, food truck bites, live music, take-home art activities and much more. Event details.

Lunar New Year x Black History Month at OACC

Feb. 4: OACC is collaborating with the Malonga Arts Residence Association (MARA) to create an intentional space for Black History and Future in Oakland Chinatown while continuing to honor AAPI cultural traditions. This event will spotlight performers that celebrate Black and AAPI arts and culture in Oakland. We are delighted to feature harpist and composer Destiny Muhammad, whose genre is cool and eclectic with a feel of jazz and storytelling to round out the sonic experience. Event details.

Chinese New Year Celebrations in the South Bay & Peninsula

chinese new year celebrations in SF
Santana Row

Community Day: Lunar New Year at the San Jose Museum of Art

Jan. 21: Join SJMA and welcome the year of the Rabbit, or in Vietnam, the year of the Cat, with artmaking activities, cultural demonstrations, and live performances. This contemporary celebration honors Lunar New Year traditions commemorated around the globe and here in San José. Explore and create with family and friends in this multigenerational event. Event details.

Santana Row Lunar New Year Celebration

Jan. 28: Santana Row welcomes the year of the Rabbit with a Lunar New Year celebration for the entire family in Santana Row Park. Enjoy the exciting drumbeats and crashing cymbals of the Dragon and Lion dances and more live entertainment on our outdoor stage. Event details.

Lunar New Year at Children’s Discovery Museum

Feb. 4: Create your own branch of beautiful flowers to symbolize health, prosperity, and good fortune in the coming year, signifying the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Be thrilled by the magnificent and ever-popular Lion Dance by Yun Yee Tong USA, as we welcome in the new year together. Event details.

12th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration at Courthouse Square in Redwood City

Feb. 4: Lion dancers, martial artists, drummers and other live performers will head up the festivities along with arts and crafts at nearby San Mateo County History museum. Event details.

Chinese New Year Celebrations in Marin

Lunar New Year Festival 2023, Terra Marin School

Jan. 21: Celebrate the beauty of the Vietnamese, Chinese & Korean cultures. From a spectacular Lion Dance to the Korean drum dance from the dance group Urisawe to a lovely Vietnamese fashion show, it will be a culturally rich festival for family members of all ages. The event will also feature multicultural activities and a raffle with prizes. Masks are encouraged but optional. Event details.

 

 

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Celebrate Lunar New Year 2023 in San Diego

by Beth Shea

The Lunar New Year begins Sunday January 22 and kicks off 15 days of colorful celebrations perfect for family fun

 

The Chinese New Year begins on January 22nd and there are family-friendly Lunar New Year celebrations of Year of the Rabbit all over the city! Immerse your kids in Asian culture at a variety of local festivals and events from downtown San Diego to Disney’s California Adventure. From lion dancing and colorful costumes to amazing entertainers and delicious Asian food, here’s the scoop on where to celebrate Chinese New Year in San Diego.

What is Year of the Rabbit & What Does the Year of the Rabbit Mean?

The Chinese zodiac relates each year to an animal, for a cycle of 12 years. Chinese New Year commences on January 22, 2023, which marks the beginning of Year of the Rabbit. The Rabbit is the luckiest of the Chinese zodiac signs and with it, is expected to bring prosperity, hope and calm.

celebrate lunar new year los angeles
Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort

Lunar New Year Celebration: Lion Dancers

Jan. 20: Visit the library for this amazing cultural experience of watching traditional lion dancing with stunts and music. Event details.

San Diego Lunar New Year Festival

Jan. 20-23: Celebrate Lunar New Year at this epic festival which features dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, games, food and more. It's a festive environment you don't want to miss. Event times vary by day. Event details.

Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure

Jan. 20-Feb. 15: Disney California Adventure Park ushers in a joyous tribute to Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures with a Lunar New Year celebration that welcomes the Year of the Rabbit. This multicultural extravaganza will include highlights like Mulan’s New Year Procession, Hurry Home – a Lunar New Year Celebration, live holiday entertainment at the Paradise Garden Bandstand, a Sip and Savor Pass for Lunar New Year marketplaces, special appearances by popular Disney characters dressed in colorful attire, innovative menus with Asian cuisine, commemorative merchandise, kid-friendly crafts and activities, and festive décor. Event details.

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2023 SD Lunar New Year Festival

Jan. 21: This Chinese Lunar New Year festival will include folk and traditional performances, arts and cultural exhibitions, lion dances and firecrackers, and plenty of family fun activities for the kids. More importantly, the festival is inclusive, pet friendly, and free with no admission cost. Event details.

Crafting for Kids: Chinese New Year Drums

Jan. 23: It's the Year of the Rabbit! Learn about Chinese New Year while making a traditional drum used in Chinese New Year celebrations. Event details.

Related: Discover Why This Coronado Island Hotel Is a Hidden Gem for Families 

San Diego Tet Festival

Jan. 27-29: San Diego Tet Festival 2023 celebrates Year of the Rabbit, attracting more than 25,000 people every year from all over the city. This 3-day celebration features free admission, a number of new attractions, activities, games, food and live entertainment, including, but not limited to, A-list Vietnamese singers and performers, lion dancing, firecrackers, the Miss Vietnam of San Diego pageant, Step-Up Dance and Golden Voice. Event details.

Crafting Culture: Traditions of the Chinese Lunar New Year

Jan. 28: Learn the tale of how the Chinese zodiac came to be! We will also discuss the Chinese tradition of having a New Year’s eve dinner, placing a couplet at the door, using fire-crackers, and saying auspicious phrases during Chinese New Year period. Event details.

40th Annual San Diego Chinese New Year Fair

Feb. 4-5: The 40th Annual San Diego Chinese New Year Fair is coming! Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with 15,000 of your closest friends on the corner of 3rd Ave. and J St. in downtown San Diego. The fair will go on, rain or shine. There will be traditional and cultural entertainment all day long on both days, lion dances, kung fu, traditional instruments, classic Chinese dances, and so much more, so don't miss out! You'll also enjoy food, family-friendly entertainment, crafts for kids and a dragon dance! Event details.

 

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Hop to It: 10 Ways to Celebrate the Lunar Year of the Rabbit in DC

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

This Chinese New Year is an extra special one, so don’t miss out on the celebrations at one of these family-friendly events in the DMV

Get ready for the bunny puns as we hop into the year of the rabbit! The Chinese Lunar New Year—also known as the Spring Festival—kicks off the first day of the lunisolar year and marks the start of the spring season. It’s 15 straight days of celebrations (from new moon to full moon) and is the most important holiday for many East Asian countries. Get ready for celebratory fanfare as families gather to usher out the old year and welcome a new year of fortune and good luck. For those in the market for extra good fortune, the rabbit is considered to be the luckiest of the 12 zodiac signs. But because you can never be too lucky,  we’ve rounded up the best Chinese Lunar New Year events in Washington, DC—from traditional dragon dances to eating lucky meals made of “longevity” noodles—for a very hoppy new year. Bonus: these events are all educational, too!

Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Washington, DC

Watch the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown

In celebration of the Zodiac's luckiest animal, the rabbit, this parade will be historically the largest to date. Chinese traditions will be on display including lion dance troupes, traditional costume teams, drum teams and more alongside community groups like the Almas Shriners, the Girl Scouts and even the Washington Wizard's dance team. There is a fireworks finale at 3:45 p.m.

Cost: Free
Date: Jan. 22 at 2 p.m.

Chinatown
Online: dcparade.com

Challenge Bookworms with a Zodiac Read-a-Thon

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library is celebrating the year of the rabbit all month long with a Zodiac-themed reading challenge. Can you read your way through the Chinese zodiac? Pick a book based on one of the twelve Zodiac signs (tiger, dog, rat, dragon, ox, rabbit, snake, goat, pig, horse, rooster and monkey). Get through all 12 signs and you'll receive a prize!

Cost: Free
Dates: Jan. 4-Jan. 25

21901 G St NW
Gallery Place/Chinatown
Online: dclibrary.libnet

Watch a Lunar New Year Cooking Demo

DC Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno, co-owners of CHIKO and Anju, will share family traditions while demonstrating how to cook traditional holiday dishes at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.

Cost: Free
Date: Jan. 21 from 1-2 p.m.

1050 Independence Ave SW
National Mall
Online: si.edu

Explore Chinese and Korean New Year's Traditions at SAAM

Learn about traditions across Chinese and Korean cultures at this annual event featuring performances, hands-on craft projects, an interactive scavenger hunt  regional foods and more. A special Lunar New Year menu will be offered in the Courtyard Cafe.

Cost: Free
Date: Jan. 28 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

8th and G St. NW
Gallery Place/Chinatown
Online: si.edu

Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Virginia

Celebrate with a Lantern Festival

Buddhist monks were the first to use glowing lanterns in their Lunar celebrations around 50 AD (around the same time it is believed Buddhism arrived in China). To honor Buddha, others adopted this tradition. Today, lanterns represent the symbolic nature of illuminating the future. Stroll through over 10,000 handmade Chinese lanterns at the Winter Lantern Festival in Tysons Corner. In addition to the stunning, larger-than-life lantern displays, there are parent-powered rides, like a steel roller coaster, Instagrammable photo ops on LED swings and live performances.

Cost: $17.99/children; $29.99/adults
Dates: Thurs.-Sun., now-Feb. from 5-1- p.m.

8025 Galleria Dr.
Tysons, VA
Online: winterlanternfestival.com

Get Festive at the Tết Grand Festival 

Celebrate the year of the rabbit at the largest Lunar New Year festival in the tai-state area! This annual event at the Dulles Expo Center showcases Vietnamese culture and traditions through exhibits, dance performances, arts and crafts and more.

Cost: $10/adults, $5/children (free under 2)
Dates: Jan. 14 & 15

4320 Chantilly Shopping Center
Chantilly, Virginia
Online: unation.com

Make Lunar New Year Decorations at Oakton Library

Get crafty with Lunar New Year-themed activities at the Oakton Library. Make traditional red envelopes to gift money in, create a money tree to hang the envelopes on and fashion lanterns out of paper. There will also be a traditional lion dance performed by the Taiwan Fun group.

Cost: Free
Date: Jan. 28 at 10:30 a.m.

10304 Lynnhaven Pl.
Oakton, VA
Online: patch.com

Chinese Lunar New Year Activities for Kids in Maryland

Watch Live Performances at Rockville's Free Event

Head to Thomas S. Wootton High School for an educational day of performances, activities and food. Coordinated in partnership with the town, Rockville's Asian Pacific American Taskforce invites the community to celebrate Asian culture during this free annual event.

Cost: Free
Date: Jan 28 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

2100 Wootton Pkwy.
Rockville, MD
Online: rockvillemd.gov/

Spend Lunar Night Celebrating the New Year

If you are looking for a lunar celebration that showcases traditions and customs across many East Asian cultures, check out this all-weekend waterfront festival. The weekend lineup includes Chinese shadow puppets, sugar painting, paper cutting, Chinese watercolor painting, red lantern crafts and more.

Cost: $10-30
Dates: Jan. 21 & 22

West Shore Park
Baltimore, MD
Online: lunar-night.com

Make Art at The Walter Museum 

Spend the day at The Walter Museum for free, hands-on fun. In honor of Lunar New Year, the museum is hosting lion dances, live performances, art workshops and more.

Cost: Free
Date: Jan. 22 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

600 N. Charles St.
Baltimore, MD
Online: thewalters.org

 

 

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17 Best Winter Activities with Kids

by Christine Lai

From winter lights and stroller hikes to skate parks and epic playgrounds, these are some of the best winter activities and things to do around San Francisco

One of the perks about living in the Bay Area is that winter is a pretty awesome time—you can take the kids hiking one day and play in the snow the next. Plus, there’s always fun to be had in Golden Gate Park. Or explore SF’s best hot chocolate and the best Italian delis in the Bay Area and determine a winner (at least in your family). Of course, you can’t ignore our world-class art exhibits—a great way to get some culture and head indoors when the weather is frightful. Here are some of our favorite family activities for when the temps top out at an oh-so-frigid 60 degrees.

1. Visit Cal Academy’s outdoor play space, Wander Woods, where hands-on playing is encouraged—crawl through a log, build a den, run through a maze, and more.

2. Last chance to visit SFMOMA's Diego Rivera's America—its 6-month run ends Jan. 3). Here you can see the most in-depth examination of the artist’s work in over two decades, bringing together more than 150 of Rivera’s paintings, frescoes, and drawings. 

3. Check out some of the Bay Area's most famous wildlife—there are tons of great spots for seeing what the sea lions, whales, and elephant seals are up to morning, noon, and night. 

4. We love Entwined, a forest of winter lights, in Peacock Meadow at Golden Gate Park through Mar.

5. Get outdoors for a hike. Whether it's a stroller workout hike, an all-access hike for wheelchairs and strollers, a hike with the littles, or our top winter hikes—we’ve got you covered from Marin to Santa Cruz.

6. San Francisco has some of the most epic playgrounds around. Pick a sunny day and start checking off our list of 30 favorites, like the updated Panhandle Playground.

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7. It's newt season! Also called orange-bellies, these adorable amphibians emerge during the wetter months of winter but just look, don’t touch—these guys are poisonous. Join a guided newt hike in Briones Regional Park or in San Ramon.

8. Burn off some energy by letting little groms warm up and drop in at one of these cool skateparks.

9. Craving some snow? These spots nearby are great for tubing and sledding or check out our Tahoe winter guide for the full snow experience. 

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10. Winter is a great time for birding in the Bay Area. Join a guided walk at the Sunol Regional Wilderness or explore on your own in Bodega Bay or Marin County.

11. See the Bay from the water. There are tons of opportunities to try kayaking with the kids—a sunny winter day is a perfect excuse to try.

12. Explore the Magical Bridge Playground in Redwood City.

13. Pack up the car with blankets and snacks and take the kids out for a drive-in movie.

14. Check out the ladybug migration in Redwood Regional Park. They are there in full force for the next few months.  

15. The next California King Tides (the highest and lowest tides of the year) will be Dec. 23-24, 2022 and Jan. 21-22, 2023. Mark your calendars to explore the coastline and tidepools near San Francisco during the lowest tide of the year—exposing sea life that is normally hidden. 

16. Hike and read a book at the same time at Presidio's Story Walk.

17. Go on a self guided tour of organic fields, the Discovery Garden, and animal pens at Farm Discovery. 

Additional reporting by Kate Loweth

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Hop Over to These Lunar New Year Celebrations

by Allison Sutcliffe

Let’s just say these family-friendly Lunar New Year events are really hoppin’

2023 ushers out the year of the Tiger and introduces the year of the Rabbit, the luckiest of all 12 of the Chinese zodiac animals. While we hope plenty of luck finds you and your family this year, we can at least point you in the right direction for ways to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with the kids around Portland. Whether you’re looking for traditional events and activities that include lion dances, red envelopes, and lanterns lighting up the sky, or you think a little extra (we’re talking balloon animals and face painting) would entice your kids to get out and celebrate, we’ve got the scoop on happenings you won’t want to miss. Our tip? Make your plans now, as many of these popular festivals require tickets and they go quickly.

1. Celebrate Chinese New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

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Daytime Lunar New Year events

While some celebrations of the Lunar New Year only last a day, the Lan Su Chinese Garden celebrates the Chinese New Year for two whole weeks. That's more than enough time to wrangle the kids into their winter gear and step out for the Pacific Northwest's largest Lunar New Year celebration. Festive decorations, tours, crafts, and performances are just a taste of what you'll experience if you visit during the daytime hours. Kids can have a bunny meet-cute, see Chinese lion dances and martial arts demonstrations, even learn calligraphy if they're game. Storytimes, food, and musical performances are all part of the celebration too. Remember to get your tickets in advance for this popular celebration. 

Good to Know: The Lunar New Year Opening Lion Dance, featuring Portland Lee's Association Dragon & Lion Dance Team, is free and open to the public. It kicks off the two-week long celebration on January 21, from 9:30-10 a.m.

Dates: Jan. 21-Feb. 5, 2023
Cost: $14/person; $11/kid (6-18); Free, kids 5 & under

Lunar New Year Evening Lantern Viewings 

If you really want to zhuzh up your Lunar New Year, bring the fam to see the glowing lanterns at Lan Su Chinese Garden in the evenings. It's an area favorite for a reason. Glowing lanterns surround you while large lighted lanterns float on the pond nearby. An illuminated dragon procession will keep the kids entertained, as will a Chinese chopstick challenge you can try as a family. End your evening with a warm cup of tea and snacks in the Garden Teahouse. The evening viewings run from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on select nights, and tickets are a must.

Dates: Jan. 26-29 and Feb. 2-5, 2023
Cost: $45/person; $15/kid (3-11); Free, kids 2 & under 

239 N.W. Everett St.
Portland
Online: lansugarden.org

a dragon outside at a lunar chinese new year portland event
Donny Hayardi via unsplash

2. Oregon 2023 Lunar New Year Celebration

What gets your kids excited? Live performances? Crafts? Magic? Come celebrate the Lunar New Year at Keller Auditorium, as it has all three and then some. Chinese Friendship Association of Portland (CFAP), the local non-profit hosting this year's Lunar New Year's celebration, is bringing in all kinds of talent to showcase. Performances range from an astounding magic show by Golden Wand Winner Eric Qiu to routines from international rhythm gymnast champs. Kids can dig in to the various activities at the arts & crafts workshops and even try their hand at calligraphy. Prepare to be awed by this year's events celebrating the Year of the Rabbit. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for arts & crafts, and performances begin at 7 p.m.

Date: Feb. 4, 2023
Cost: $25-$115

Keller Auditorium
222 S.W. Clay St.
Portland
Online: portland5.com

3. Enjoy Chinese Storytime

Read books, sings songs, and recite nursery rhymes at this virtual Chinese storytime hosted by the Multnomah County Library. Best for kids six and under, it'll be an engaging time and a special way to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit from home. Please register to receive the Zoom link.

Date: Jan. 22, 2023

Online: multcolib.org/events

4. Lunar New Year Celebration in Milwaukie

Say goodbye to the past year and welcome prosperity in the Year of the Rabbit at the Milwaukie Community Center. Lots of learning will take place at this celebration that includes dances, crafts, activities, and music. Light refreshments and exciting lion and drum dances will keep the kids engaged at this free, and very family-friendly event.

Date: Jan. 22, 2023

Milwaukie Community Center
5440 S.E. Kellogg Creek Dr.
Milwaukie, OR
Online: ncprd.com

Related: How to Support Local Asian American-Owned Businesses Now

a lion puppet hangs from the ceiling during a lunar chinese new year event in portland
Sandy Millar via unsplash

5. 2023 Chinese New Year Cultural Fair

Welcome the year of the Rabbit at this family-friendly Lunar New Year celebration held at the Oregon Convention Center. Expect plenty of traditional Chinese New Year activities like lion dances, folk dances, calligraphy, and martial arts demonstrations. There will be children's activities and games to be played as well. Tickets are on sale for this event now.

Date: Jan. 21, 2023
Cost: $8/person; Free, kids 3 & under

Oregon Convention Center
777 N.E. MLK Jr. Blvd.
Portland
Online: oregoncc.org

6. Make Lunar New Year Postcards & Origami

If you're up for an adventure, head north to the Hands On Children's Museum in Olympia. Always a hot destination for toddlers and their grown-ups, it's even more so on the Chinese New Year when kids can make rabbit origami and write postcards to friends and family, wishing them luck in the year ahead. These activities are included with museum admission or membership.

Date: Jan. 22, 2023

Hands On Children's Museum
414 Jefferson St. N.E.
Olympia, WA
Online: hocm.org

a red lion dances with a masked person in the background during a lunar new year seattle celebration
Mick Haupt via unsplash

7. Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade & Celebration

Experience a dragon dance and parade when you celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Portland Chinese Museum and the Oregon Historical Society. The parade starts at N.W. 3rd and Davis Street and proceeds around Old Town, Downtown, and Oregon Historical Society Park Plaza as dancers weave in and out along the 1.4-mile route. Lion dancers and other performers kick things off around 10 a.m. before the dragon heads out for the trip.  

Date: Jan. 28, 2023

Portland Chinatown Museum
127 N.W. Third Ave.
Portland
Online: portlandchinatownmuseum.org

8. Lunar New Year Celebration

Make a wish on a red ribbon and snap a few selfies at Washington Square Mall to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Families can also crafts, stories, and dances in the center court from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of day's activities. 

Date: Jan. 28, 2023

Washington Square
9585 S.W. Washington Square Rd.
Portland
Online: shopwashingtonsquare.com

9. Celebrate Lunar New Year at the Mac Market

You won't want to miss this free community event that has all the usual Lunar New Year celebration activities like lion dances, calligraphy demonstrations, and martial arts performances. But this gathering, hosted by local Asian American residents in partnership with Mac Market and Unidos Bridging Community includes balloon animals (our money's on the rabbit), face painting, and storytimes too. It's the perfect mix of traditional elements and a little something extra that'll get your kids excited for the day. 

Date: Jan. 21, 2023

1140 N.E. Alpine Ave.
McMinnville, OR
Online: eventbrite.com

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Join the Mysterious Hunt That Celebrates the Lunar New Year

by Allison Sutcliffe

Celebrate the Lunar New Year a bit differently this year when you go on a Monkeyshines hunt to find hidden art around the city

The Year of the Rabbit is right around the corner, and if you’re looking for a new way to celebrate, we’ve got just the thing. Monkeyshines is a secret art scavenger hunt that gives families a reason to get outside and explore. Plus, if your hunt is successful, you’ll take home a gorgeous glass orb as your prize. Ready for a new kind of hide and seek game? Here’s what you need to know…

Go Bananas for Monkeyshines

Guerrilla art. Hidden treasure. No matter what you call it, Monkeyshines is a beloved Tacoma tradition. It’s a citywide scavenger hunt that starts around the Lunar New Year—the exact start date is a secret—that anyone can join. Seekers are on the lookout for blown glass floats or medallions, stamped with a Lunar New Year animal design. This year, there are two new Year of the Ox designs, in addition to a historical one (a stamp used 12 years ago) hidden around the city. Where you’ll find them? Nobody knows. That’s sort of the point. Seeking a Monkeyshine is about getting out and exploring T-town with your kids. If you find a hidden treasure along the way, you’re one of the lucky ones.

In the Beginning

Monkeyshines started 18 year ago by Ms. and Mr. Monkey as a way to bring joy to the community. In an effort to cheer themselves up during the gloomy winter months, they organized a whole hot shop’s worth of artists and volunteers to make 200 Monkeyshines they then hid around the city. Now Ms. Monkey and her band of mischief makers spend the better part of the year designing and producing the 2,000 glass orbs they eventually hide. It’s a true labor of love and a gift to the city; a way for people to make their own fun, explore Tacoma and connect with community.

Going Rogue

The excitement surrounding Monkeyshines is contagious. In fact, years ago it inspired Marble Man to hide colorful marbles in anticipation of the big hunt. Now “going rogue” is kind of a thing. Area makers create Lunar Near Year art and hide it in the weeks and days leading up the official Monkeyshines hunt. So while you’re out seeking orbs, keep your eyes peeled for other guerrilla art (think: wood ornaments, stamped paper, metal coins and more) you may find tucked into trees, hanging from sculptures or carefully placed along popular paths. How will you know if you’ve found a Rogue? All this art incorporates this year’s lunar animal as well.

The Heart of the Hunt

Ms. Monkey says it best. At its core, Monkeyshines is about the hunt more than the find. It’s about creating a positive experience in the community and finding wonder along the way. Whether you find an orb, or someone else does, it’s the memories of your time together that matter. There’s an ethos that guides the hunt. For starters, Monkeyshines find you. That’s why you never know when you’re going to stumble across one. Seekers are asked to only take one Monkeyshine per year. And trade-ups are allowed. So if you find a Monkeyshine medallion and later come across an orb, leave one so you can take the other. Our favorite part of the hunt? There’s no way to know what’s been found any given year, so it's possible to find Monkeyshines hidden years ago at any time.

Where to Seek & (Hopefully) Find

Amy M. via yelp

Only the volunteers who hide the Monkeyshines know exactly where they are, but if your family is ready to head out in search of this coveted treasure, these spots are always worth exploring. Try looking in…

Wright Park is a 27-acre oasis in the middle of the city. While you’re looking for your Year of the Ox treasure, wander the winding trails, play at the playground and stop in to smell the azaleas, cyclamen and orchids at the W.W. Seymour Conservatory with a timed ticket.

Downtown Tacoma is another great spot to happen upon elusive art. While the usual haunts aren’t currently open, families can still walk around the UW Tacoma campus, cross the Chihuly Bridge of Glass and walk the Prairie Line Trail near TAM in search of Monkeyshines. Also consider exploring Old Town Tacoma if you’re still on the hunt.

Dune Peninsula Park and Point Ruston have lots to do in addition to seeking hidden treasure. The playground, trails and amazing views will keep the kids busy for hours. It’s a bike and scooter paradise on a sunny day!

Wherever you plan your hunt, remember that Monkeyshines are hidden all over, and never on private property. Don’t forget to look for them in trees and ponds (Ms. Monkey’s favorite hiding spot is in the water), as well as on the ground.

Insider tip: Check out #Monkeyshines on Instagram and Twitter to see where people have found treasures in past years for inspiration.

Good to know: The pandemic has been especially tough on local artists, including many who volunteer their time to put on the Monkeyshines hunt. That’s why this year Ms. Monkey is working to pay artists for their time and talent. If you’d like to show your support, it’s as easy as donating to the Monkeyshines fund.

All photos courtesy Sierra Hartman, unless otherwise noted

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Above Par: 8 Spots for Spectacular Mini Golf in Atlanta

by Shelley Massey

Putt-putt your way to family fun when you and the kids play mini golf in Atlanta

If you’re looking for a hole-in-one for your next family outing, head to one of the city’s best spots for mini golf, Atlanta parents. Whether pirates, aliens, glow-in-the-dark, or skyline views are your jam, Atlanta mini golf is where it’s at for family fun that turns back the clock, at least a bit. Hint: Bowling is another. Our suggestion? Choose a fun restaurant for dinner and make a whole day of it.

1. Skyline Park at Ponce City Market

While it may not be Pebble Beach, Skyline Park on top of Ponce City Market offers hands-down the best view in Atlanta when it comes to mini-golf. With the city lights twinkling around you, your pint-sized putters won't even mind if they miss a hole-in-one. In addition to the course, there is a giant slide, carnival games, concessions, and more.

675 Ponce de Leon Ave.
Atlanta
Online: skylineparkatlanta.com

2. Monster Mini Golf

A monster-themed, indoor mini golf place that works even when the weather is a bit scary? Why not? This glow-in-the-dark golf course will have older kids squealing with excitement but might be a bit much if you have small children that tend to scare easily. The animated props at every turn, challenging course, on-site arcade, and live DJ spinning tunes are a perfect match for families with older kids looking for a frighteningly fun time.

2505 Chastain Meadows Pkwy.
Marietta, GA
Online: monsterminigolf.com

Related: Where to Host the Ultimate Kids' Birthday Bash in Atlanta

3. Lunar Mini Golf

Have out-of-this-world fun at Lunar Mini Golf, where glowing holes of golf await your skills. 

5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy.
Lawrenceville, GA
Online: glowminigolf.com

4. Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf

What this putt-putt course lacks in slick, special effects it makes up for in serenity. And did we mention it has a train theme? Right. Let them put around broken tracks and dodge an oncoming train in a cool tunnel feature. They may not remember the monolith but they'll be talking about the mini golf for ages. Keep in mind that the mini golf course is only available on "Attractions Open" days at the park. You can check the schedule before heading out for a round.

1000 Robert E. Lee Dr.
Stone Mountain, GA
Online: stonemountainpark.com

5. Mountasia

Looking for some solid old-school family entertainment? Head to Mountasia for a round (or two, or three—the prices are really reasonable and kids 5 and under play for free) of mini golf, then head over to the go-karts (drivers must be 18 and 54" tall, passengers 36" tall) or inside to the arcade.

175 Barrett Pkwy.
Marietta, GA
Online: mountasiamarietta.com

6. Glow Galaxy

Sometimes you just need to be a little groovy. At Glow Galaxy, the glowing mini golf and inflatables can't be beat. With an Open Play option for children ages 2-12, (drop off is available during Open Play for children ages 4-12), grown-ups get in free. Just be sure to call ahead, as Open Play hours change weekly.

6527-D Jimmy Carter Blvd.
Norcross, GA
Online: glowgalaxy.com

Related: 100 Things You MUST Do with Kids in Atlanta

7. The Fringe at Aurora Cineplex

Head to Roswell's Area 51 funplex for two 18-hole, family-friendly miniature golf courses—complete with a pirate ship, waterfalls, and the nearby Aurora Cineplex for post-putt movie-going.

5100 Commerce Pkwy.
Roswell, GA
Online: a51fun.com

8. Pirates Cove

A pirate ship, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams make the 27 holes of this mini-course a true treasure. A recent refitting and update of the pirate ship, along with a course renovation, make Pirate's Cove one of Atlanta's more modern mini golf meccas.

3380 Venture Pkwy.
Atlanta
Online: piratescove.net

Related: 7 Secret Spots in Atlanta Worth Finding

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