During the Lunar New Year, people gather to celebrate, give thanks, and start fresh. It’s a time when loved ones come together for good fortune. For our CSC members, the season is about bonding with loved ones, honouring elders, and creating memories for future generations.

From reunion dinners to visits to temples, here’s how two of our members, in their own unique ways, create memories during the Lunar New Year. 

Aster with her husband and two daughters. (Photo by: Aster Goh)

While celebrating togetherness and heritage, Aster, 41, seeks learning moments during big family gatherings. Growing up, Aster’s New Year was marked by dressing in new, brightly coloured clothes and serving tea and oranges to her parents as blessings and well-wishing. 

As she started earning her own income, the educator extended her gratitude to her grandparents as well. The cycle continued after marriage, where Aster and her husband prepared red packets for their children and unmarried relatives, as a meaningful way of passing on prosperity. 

Aster with her extended family. (Photo by: Aster Goh)

While some Lunar New Year traditions like exchanging oranges and tossing yusheng, remain unchanged, Aster has noticed that other family practices are gradually being lost. 

“I am determined to pass down more traditions to my daughters. For example, we visit older relatives together and exchange greetings and well-wishes for the new year. It’s the perfect opportunity for my daughters to connect with their extended family,” Aster says in summary of her celebrations. 

Felicia with her family. (Photo by: Felicia Khoo)

For Felicia, 35, her celebrations are deeply rooted in gratitude towards her family. A full-family affair for the Transformation (Ops Management) Manager, she celebrates with her beloved husband, parents, and in-laws, adding a touch of modernity to her festivities. 

Homemade Pen Cai for the reunion dinner. (Photo by: Felicia Khoo)

The festive mood begins with a reunion dinner for the whole family. The table is filled with home-cooked dishes, such as Pen Cai, a traditional Hakka delicacy and classic dishes like steamed whole fish and stir-fried vegetables. “We usually have reunion dinners at home so we can bond comfortably over delicious home-cooked dishes,” Felicia mentions. 

On days before Lunar New Year, Felicia and her family make it a point to check out themed lights and decorations. Some of their favourite spots include Gardens by the Bay’s River Hongbao and the Chinatown installations. 

Serving red date tea symbolises a sweet, prosperous start to the new year. (Photo by: Felicia Khoo)

One of Felicia’s most meaningful traditions takes place on the morning of the new year. She serves her parents red date tea first thing in the morning to express her respect and gratitude for raising her. This tradition is also a way to wish her parents a sweet and fruitful year ahead.  

The simple yet touching ritual is followed by the presentation of red packets, accompanied by well-wishes expressed through four-character Chinese idioms. To top it off, Felicia seals it with a hug, a gentle reminder that beyond customs and rituals, the Lunar New Year is about love and appreciation towards our familial bonds. 

Whether you’re serving tea, gathering for yu sheng or marvelling at festive lights, the Lunar New Year means different things to families—yet its heart remains. It is a time to pause, give thanks, reconnect, and begin the year with hope.

For Civil Service Club members like Felicia and Aster, these traditions are cherished moments that strengthen family bonds and preserve cultural heritage.