Chinese New Year 2024, the year of The Dragon
“Xin Nian Kuai Le” – Happy New Year
Happy Chinese New Year 2024. May good fortune be abundant in the year of the dragon. London is a great place to be during the Lunar New Year. A holiday for all, no matter who you are. Chinese New Year marks the new Lunar year so if you were not quite ready for the calendar New Year on January 1st you can start afresh again.
Lunar New Year’s are a cycle of twelve. Twelve animals and twelve years. The animals of the Chinese zodiac represent the characteristics of people born within that year. In 2024 we welcome the Year of the Dragon. Therefore if you were born in 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964 or 1952 then you are a dragon. Dragon characteristics are charisma, intellect, confidence and luck.
This year Chinese New Year falls on Saturday 10th February. Perhaps find out yours and your companions Chinese zodiac sign and celebrate Chinese New Year together. Here are some ways you and a beautiful companion can enjoy Chinese New Year in London.
New clothes for a New Year
Generally, it is Chinese New Year tradition to wear a new outfit to start the year fresh. If you want to really get into the holiday spirit then wear the colour red. The Chinese consider red an auspicious colour. It is the most favoured celebratory colour at all times not just during the Lunar New Year. If red is not your colour perhaps you could add a splash of red to your outfit with an accessory.
Gifts curated for an auspicious new year
Gifts are more popular during the Lunar New Year. Harry Winstone for example has specially made eight (the lucky Chinese number) time pieces for the year of the dragon. Made with an exotic red leather strap, rose gold and rubies. Ultra exclusive and super limited edition. As well as jewellers and watchmakers, nearly every retailer from high end to supermarkets now have a Lunar range of products.
Chinese New Year Feasting
Enjoy a Chinese feast with a beautiful companion to celebrate Chinese New Year. Food plays a pivotal role in Lunar New Year celebrations. Eating fish for example is said to bring prosperity. Dining on dumplings and spring rolls will give you wealth. Filling up on shrimp is supposed to fill you with happiness. Lastly, make sure you do not eat porridge on this day as it is said to be the food of the poor. In fact, it is said to be unlucky to eat a bowl of oats when one would hope for a prosperous year ahead. Undoubtedly, a great idea to go to an upscale restaurant with a beautiful date.
Chinese New Year restaurant suggestions
You and your stunning date can expect an elevated celebratory atmosphere during February. A dinner date at one of these Chinese inspired restaurant is sure to impress any lucky lady.
Tattu, The Now Building Rooftop Outernet, Denmark Place, WC2H 0LA
Tattu, a cherry blossom filled, rooftop venue that offers spectacular views. A contemporary Chinese restaurant with a fantastic fusion menu, bespoke cocktails and show stopping decor. In summary, it is a fantastic venue to celebrate in style. Tattu is centrally located right next to Tottenham Court Road tube station.
MiMi Mei Fair, 55 Curzon Street, W1J 8PG
Mimi Mei Fair, a Michelin starred restaurant led by Executive Chef Peter Ho. A London town house beautifully decorated to reflect traditional Chinese style. Two restaurant floors and a bar fabulously decorated. Intricately handprinted wallpaper, seating upholstered in red leather, brass accents on the lights and mirrors makes one feel transported back in time. The menu is innovative yet authentic. Expect dim sum, lobster, chicken and pork. A beautiful location to take a beautiful date this Chinese New Year.
Mei Ume, Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square, EC3N 4AJ
Mei Ume is located in the stunning Four Seasons Trinity Square hotel. A sophisticated dining experience in a stylish setting. Earthy tones of grey marble, polished wooden tables and muted red leather seating give the eatery a serene yet contemporary feel. The menu brings together two asian cuisines; Chinese and Japanese. Peking duck, lobster and wagyu beef feature heavily. A decadent celebratory menu will be served with a lion dance on Saturday 10th February. In addition, Mei Ume will also host a traditional Chinese dance a week later on Saturday 17th February.