Lunar New Year Crafts: Glowing Paper Lanterns

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is a vibrant celebration filled with traditions, family, and joy. In 2025, we welcome the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation. What better way to embrace the festivities with kids than with creative crafts that bring the spirit of the holiday to life?

These three simple Lunar New Year craft ideas are perfect for kids and offer opportunities to explore the rich cultural traditions of this special holiday. Gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get crafting!

Glowing Paper Lanterns

Illuminate your Lunar New Year celebrations with colorful paper lanterns, a classic decoration that symbolizes prosperity and good luck.

What you need:

• Red and gold paper
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• String or ribbon

Directions:

1. Decorate your paper with festive designs 
2. Fold the paper in half lengthwise.
3. Draw evenly spaced horizontal lines (1–2 inches apart).
4. Cut along the lines, leaving the open edge uncut, unfold the paper and form it into a tube.
5. Secure the edges with glue or tape.
6. Add a handle by threading string or ribbon through punched holes at the top.

Kevin Malek | Canva

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.

Holiday Crafts, All Ages Crafts