As the Year of the Snake comes, Bali offers the perfect setting to celebrate Chinese New Year in style. Rooted in over 4,000 years of history, Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most significant celebration in Chinese culture, marking the start of the lunar calendar. Traditionally a time to honor ancestors and deities, it has evolved into a joyous festival centered on family reunions, grand feasts, and age-old customs. Homes are filled with red decorations symbolizing luck, while rituals like cleaning the house, gifting red envelopes, and lighting firecrackers aim to drive away bad luck and invite prosperity. The snake, this year’s zodiac animal, represents wisdom, elegance, and transformation—qualities deeply valued in Chinese culture. As we step into 2025, this festive season is the perfect opportunity to shed old habits and embrace personal growth!
Why the Year of the Snake Is Your Moment to Shine
The Snake is the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac, and while it might have a bad rep in pop culture, in Chinese traditions, it’s all about elegance, wisdom, and transformation. This is the year to channel those vibes, reflect, and shed old habits for a shiny new start.
And what better place to embrace this energy than Bali? The island’s mix of culture and calm is the ultimate backdrop for fresh beginnings and unforgettable celebrations.
1. Indulge in Reunion Dinners with a Balinese Twist
Foodies, this one’s for you. The reunion dinner is the star of Chinese New Year in Bali, bringing family and friends together over a delicious spread. And let’s be real—Bali doesn’t do mediocre when it comes to dining.
Join the celebration in style at Fu House, Seminyak’s hottest Asian Grill by PROJECT:BLACK, with a two-day Lunar New Year extravaganza on 28 and 29 January 2025. Enjoy a festive dim sum feast featuring crowd-pleasers like Char Siu Buns, Rendang Doughnuts, and Prawn Toast, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t miss the vibrant Barongsai (lion dance) performance on 29 January at 8:30 PM, bringing energy and good fortune to the evening. Pre-order the iconic Yee Sang salad to add a touch of prosperity to your celebrations. With sleek design, a City Pop-inspired soundtrack, and exceptional hospitality, Fu House offers the ultimate setting to ring in the Lunar New Year. Seats are limited—make sure you reserve now!
Address: Fu House, Jl. Petitenget No.123 X, Seminyak, Bali
Reservation: +628113974433
2. Plan a Family Day Out
CNY is all about family, and Bali is brimming with activities that’ll make everyone happy (yes, even your moody teenager).
Start with a little adventure. Head to Waterbom for a thrilling day out, or take the fam to Bali Reptile Park to spot the animals of the Chinese zodiac (hello, snakes!). Prefer some water action? Nusa Dua is your go-to for water sports!
Want to slow it down? A sunset stroll along the beach or a cozy movie night in your villa hits just right.
3. Witness the Vibrant Lion Dance
There’s no mistaking the festive beat of the lion dance. Known as Barongsai in Bali, these vibrant, high-energy performances are believed to bring luck and scare away bad vibes.
You’ll find them at fancy resorts, Chinese restaurants, and even shopping malls like Beachwalk in Kuta or Level 21 in Denpasar.
Photo by Kelvin Zyteng on Unsplash
4. Dress to Impress
One thing about Chinese New Year? You have to bring the style. Red is the lucky color, symbolizing strength and prosperity, while gold adds a touch of wealth (and who doesn’t want that?).
This is your excuse to shop guilt-free—because a new outfit isn’t just a vibe, it’s tradition. Check out chic boutiques in Canggu and Seminyak for modern takes on festive wear, or our trusted partner Kru Boutique in Bingin! And yes, it’s totally fine to add a tropical twist to your look.
5. Don’t Forget the Red Envelopes
Ah, the iconic red envelope! Known as ang pao, these little red packets filled with money are a cornerstone of Chinese New Year. Gifting them is a way to wish loved ones luck, happiness, and success.
Hand them out to kids, grandparents, and anyone who could use a little extra cheer. Feeling creative? Hang them on potted trees or use them as part of your table décor for a festive flair.
So, get your red outfit ready, gather your loved ones, and dive into 2025 with a whole lot of style and good vibes. Gong Xi Fa Cai, beautiful people—here’s to a year of wisdom, charm, and transformation!
Don’t forget to follow the Instagram of Alfred in Bali for daily holiday inspiration!
