Chinese New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year, centred around family, tradition and fresh beginnings. At our Ringwood office, the decorations are up and the festive spirit is well and truly in the air as we welcome the Year of the Horse. Ringwood Partner, Scott Chen shares his reflections on the traditions that have shaped his experience of Chinese New Year.
Family first
For Scott, Chinese New Year has always been about family. “Even if people live far from home, they will do everything to come back and see their parents,” he says. “Video calls are great, but deep down, everyone wants to be home.”
It’s a season of reunions where airports, train stations, and bus terminals fill with families travelling long distances just to be together. For Scott, the magic of the season is knowing that no matter where life takes you, there’s a place to return to and loved ones to share it with.
Red packets, fireworks and family meals
New Year’s Eve is a favourite for many families, and Scott has fond memories of the excitement that comes with it. “When I was a kid, getting red packets and lighting fireworks was the best,” he says.
Red packets, or hongbao, are small red envelopes filled with lucky money. They’re traditionally given by older family members to children and younger relatives, symbolising good fortune, prosperity, and positive wishes for the year ahead. For Scott, receiving them as a child was always thrilling, and now, as a parent, he loves passing the tradition on to his own children. Preparing red packets, sharing the joy, and maybe even sneaking a little chocolate or two into the mix has become a highlight of the celebrations.
Family meals are another key part of the festivities. Whether cooked at home or enjoyed at a restaurant, they’re a chance to catch up, laugh, and savour time together. For Scott, these moments are as much about connection as they are about food.
Wishes for the year ahead
On New Year’s Day, the greeting of choice is “Gong Xi Fa Cai”, wishing everyone prosperity and good fortune. Scott’s favourite part of Chinese New Year has changed over time. From fireworks and red packets as a child, to enjoying the holiday break as a young adult, and now simply sitting with his parents and seeing them healthy and happy.
Chinese New Year at Ringwood is a little extra festive thanks to the decorations, a few smiles, and the joy of sharing traditions with the next generation. From everyone at Highview Ringwood, Gong Xi Fa Cai!
