12 Lunar New Year Party Ideas

Bring good fortune to the table! A set of these stylish bowls—painted in a rich red color and coated in sheets of shimmering gold leaf—make an eye-catching statement for the feast. We were inspired by the tradition of displaying (and eating) tangerines and oranges, which are said to bring wealth and luck, respectively.

Everyone can use a little extra luck. Citrus, the traditional token of Chinese New Year, symbolizes a fresh start, and a whole pomelo (a less tart, more perfume-y cousin of the grapefruit) signifies abundance and unity. Wrap one in auspicious red netting and tuck in a leaf tag.

Pictured: Pearson Ranch pomelos, from $20 for 6, pearsonranch.com

. Royal plastic mesh, in Red, $21 for 250 pieces,

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In Chinese astrology, 2019 is the Year of the Pig (aka a chance to fatten up your wallet). We gave this pink leather coin purse a porcine makeover with fabric glue, leather cording, and a few easy-to-find craft tools.

Try spinning a wheel of fortune! When Martha hosted a Lunar New Year party with her grandchildren, little ones and adults alike enjoyed this game. When it lands, children get to pick out a gift to take home with them.

Also at Martha's party: Nine Cakes in Brooklyn baked a delicious four-tiered cake featuring all the Chinese zodiac animals. These adorable, edible marzipan cake toppers aren't too hard to make—simply combine marzipan with gel food coloring and let your imagination run wild.

The Lantern Festival signifies the end of the Chinese New Year celebration, falling on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. They come in all colors, shapes, and sizes—making a spectacular backdrop for the festivities. Here, guests enjoy a traditional Chinese dance performance by Ling Tang.

Scrumptious dumplings are among the tasty treats. We also like to serve hand-carved fruit, bubble tea from Boba Guys, and rolled ice cream from 10Below.

Put together party favor bags filled with goodies, such as this adorable "Year of the Rooster" T-shirt that Martha made for the children.

Sweet mochi treats were transformed into cute roosters—one of the animals of the zodiac—with shredded-coconut feathers, gumdrop combs, mini chocolate chip eyes, and M&M "beaks."