Lunar New Year falls on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025, and this year, we’re ushering in the Wood Snake. In the lead-up to the celebrations, I’ll be sharing snake-inspired interior designs, table-setting and decoration ideas, and some of my mother’s signature recipes that she prepares every year (and that I’ll be attempting to recreate).

Last year, I found it difficult to find quality Lunar New Year decorations in Oakland’s Chinatown. While mandarin trees, spiral bamboo, and pussy willow branches were abundant, there was a noticeable lack of shops offering basic decorations.

If you are in the area looking for Lunar New Year decorations in Oakland Chinatown, there is one shop next to Yuen Hop Noodle Company & Grocery. It’s the only place in Chinatown fully adorned in red, so you won’t miss it. And since you’re already there, don’t forget to pick up some of Yuen Hop’s fresh noodles—they’re a must.

get your envelops ready

While I wish I could do a one stop shop in Chinatown to get my decorations, some times you just have to order the good stuff online, or make it yourself. Check out and support these talented artists who have created their own LNY red envelops and tabletop goods.

Year of the Snake red envelopes, designed by Alice Lee.

tabletop decor

Togetherness Tray by Tiffany Saw / Sold by Wing on Wo

Python Porcelain Vase by Tiffany Saw