mother and daughter smiling and laughing

GUIDE

A business traveler’s guide to Lunar New Year

Beyond the lanterns, red packets and lion dances, Lunar New Year has major impacts on many businesses and their operations. As a business traveler, understanding the cultural nuances and intricacies behind this celebration can help you foster more meaningful connections with your colleagues and business partners. Join us as we unpack the cultural and business impacts of this festival celebrated by millions across the world.

women standing in front of lanterns

What is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, marks the beginning of the lunar calendar, usually falling between late January and mid-February. It is predominantly celebrated by East Asian communities, including the Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Malaysian, Singaporean, Indonesian, Tibetan, and Mongolian communities.

For those who celebrate, Lunar New Year is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a festive period steeped in traditions and deep-rooted customs to symbolize a time of renewal, family reunions, and the ushering in of good fortune and prosperity. Families gather for sumptuous feasts, ancestral worship, and vibrant dragon and lion dances. It marks a fresh beginning, where wishes for prosperity, health, and good fortune take flight. The significance lies in the belief that these traditions bring blessings and luck for the coming year.

chinese lunar new year of the wood dragon

2024: The year of the Wood Dragon

This year’s Lunar New Year celebrations begin on Saturday 10 February. According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2024 marks the Year of the Dragon. More specifically, the Wood Dragon.

The Dragon is believed to be the most powerful and auspicious animal, representing strength, wisdom, luck, and prosperity. Moreover, the Wood Dragon stands out among its dragon counterparts for its unparalleled creativity and visionary mindset, embodied qualities of optimism, ambition, and a fearless spirit of adventure.

As we approach the anticipated Year of the Dragon in 2024, the Wood Dragon's influence signals a period characterized by visionary leadership, innovation, and adept problem-solving. This upcoming year is poised to be an auspicious time for initiating new projects, seizing fresh opportunities, and contributing value to both personal and collective pursuits.

Chinese lunar new year - lanterns

A significant occasion for business

In many Asian countries, Lunar New Year is a time of extensive celebration, with many people from urban areas often returning to their hometowns to be with family. As a business traveler, it's crucial to be aware of this mass migration and plan accordingly. Many businesses may close during this period, impacting regular operations and services. Understanding and respecting these cultural nuances is essential for maintaining smooth business interactions.

On the flip side, businesses that recognize and celebrate Lunar New Year with their employees often foster a sense of loyalty and commitment. Acknowledging the cultural significance of the festival through corporate events or time-off policies can improve employee morale and contribute to a positive work environment.

Business best practices

With the growing multiculturalism in our society, it’s important to be aware of certain nuances and practices tied to Lunar New Year to build a more inclusive and respectful environment for our peers, colleagues, and business partners.

1. Colors convey meaning

Bright, vibrant colors hold significance during this festive season, with red being the most auspicious. Consider incorporating red into your attire or corporate gifts as a gesture of goodwill. Other vibrant colors like orange, yellow, or purple are also acceptable.

2. Know your numbers

Numbers hold a lot of significance, particularly during this time of the year. Avoid using the unlucky number 4 (four) as its phonetic resemblance in Chinese culture associates it with death. Instead, embrace the lucky number 8 (eight) which is tied to wealth and prosperity. Think of the dates and times of your business dealings too. Incorporating this understanding into your dealings can show a keen awareness and respect for cultural nuances.

3. Timing is everything

Plan your business activities with the lunar calendar in mind. Avoid scheduling important meetings or negotiations during significant Lunar New Year celebrations to ensure a harmonious and prosperous outcome.

4. Respect employees taking time off

Given the significance of Lunar New Year, expect employees or stakeholders who celebrate the occasion to take time off. Avoiding work demands on Lunar New Year's Eve, understanding the importance of family reunions, and anticipating leave requests well in advance contribute to fostering a workplace that values diversity and the personal lives of its members.

5. Gifts of good fortune

Consider gifting items that symbolize prosperity and good fortune. Traditional choices include mandarin oranges, a symbol of wealth in business relationships. On top of that, elegant gift baskets featuring high-quality teas or treats can also be thoughtful gestures that convey appreciation and best wishes for a prosperous year ahead.

As a business traveler, understanding these cultural nuances of Lunar New Year is essential for successful outcomes. By incorporating these best practices, you can not only navigate this period with cultural finesse but also cultivate relationships enriched by respect, understanding, and a touch of auspicious fortune.

May your business ventures flourish this Lunar New Year 2024, and to our readers who celebrate, we wish you a harmonious and prosperous Happy Lunar New Year!