1. Prepare a dish: Chinese New Year is all about sharing food—more dishes mean more luck! Don’t worry about "extra" food; it’s a symbol of abundance and your contribution to the celebration.

2. Give red envelopes (hongbao) to those younger than you: Red envelopes carry good luck, and this kind gesture might bring you more blessings in return later!

3. Set off fireworks (check local rules): Fireworks were once a classic tradition, but they’re banned in big cities like Shanghai. They’re still allowed in rural areas—just follow local regulations.

4. Wear red clothes: Red symbolizes luck in Chinese culture. For a fun trick: write the name of someone you want to avoid on the bottom of your red socks—it’s believed to keep them away!

5. Visit Yu Garden (Shanghai): If staying home feels lonely, head to Yu Garden! It hosts lively Chinese New Year celebrations with lanterns, performances, and traditional snacks.

1. Don’t throw away trash/food: It’s believed to "throw away your luck." If you need to discard something, wait until the next morning.

2. Don’t give clocks as gifts: In Chinese, "clock" (钟) sounds like "end" (终). Words related to "death" or "ending" are considered unlucky during the festival.

3. Don’t talk about deceased loved ones: Unless you’re honoring someone very close, avoid mentioning the deceased—it may bring bad luck, according to tradition.

4. Don’t wear black or white: These colors are associated with mourning and bad luck in Chinese culture—stick to red, gold, or bright hues instead.

5. Don’t hold negative emotions: Avoid crying, cursing, arguing, or fighting. Bad moods are thought to attract bad luck for the new year. Stay positive and kind to everyone!