Chinese New Year always feels like it sneaks up on us.
One minute it’s “eh, still early lah,” next thing you know, your favourite dress is out of stock and the restaurant says “Sorry, we’re fully booked!”
To save yourself from last-minute panic (and unnecessary stress), here’s the ultimate Chinese New Year 2026 Checklist for smooth planning, better deals and a whole lot more festive joy.
☐ Shop early and enjoy proper retail therapy (more sizes, less crowd)
☐ Avoid last-minute online shopping (Deliveries get hectic 2 weeks before CNY)
☐ Plan at least 1–2 outfits (reunion dinner + visiting days)
☐ Book slots for brow shaping, lashes, manicure and pedicure early
Pro tip: Book a Lalamove Ride for stress-free retail therapy around KL
☐ Put up auspicious décor (lanterns, 财神爷, lucky knots)
☐ Paste auspicious words (福, 春, 发) on doors and walls
☐ Add bright colour arrangements (red, gold, orange accents)
☐ Prepare fresh floral arrangements (orchids, peach blossoms)
☐ Declutter or rearrange furniture to refresh feng shui energy
Pro tip: Book a Lalamove van delivery to send fresh florals, décor or even new furniture straight to your doorstep.
☐ Confirm reunion dinner date(s)
☐ Coordinate visiting schedules with relatives
☐ Arrange transport or accommodation if travelling
☐ Prepare small gifts or snacks for house visits
Pro tip: Book a Lalamove Ride during peak visiting days to skip traffic stress and focus on family time
☐ Plan hampers for family members
☐ Arrange hampers for business partners or clients
☐ Schedule deliveries early to avoid a last-minute rush
☐ Stock up mandarin oranges for gifting and visiting
☐ Withdraw new cash notes early from the bank
☐ Prepare different angpau amounts for different recipients
☐ Stock extra angpau packets (they always finish faster than expected)
☐ Pay off outstanding bills where possible to start the year debt-free
☐ Grocery shopping done early (avoid packed supermarkets)
☐ Secure bak kwa from your favourite brand
☐ Buy pineapples for prosperity (and tarts)
☐ Prepare or order yee sang for prosperity toss
☐ Book reunion dinner tables in advance
☐ Send dinner invitations early to avoid clashes
Pro tip: Use a Lalamove motorcycle or car delivery to pick up groceries or last-minute ingredients
☐ Purchase firecrackers (where permitted)
☐ Stock party poppers and festive tableware
☐ Prepare extra snacks and drinks for unexpected guests
☐ Check lighting and decorations for hosting nights
Pro tip: Book a Lalamove lorry or van delivery to transport bulky open house essentials with ease.
Start early, tick off your checklist and let Lalamove handle the deliveries and rides.
Whether it’s picking up your last-minute bak kwa, sending angpau to relatives across town or getting your furniture delivered, you can celebrate stress-free this Chinese New Year.
马年快乐！ Happy Year of the Horse!