How to Host a Chinese New Year Party

Everything is in place for your Chinese New Year party. The food is prepared to pay homage to the Kitchen God and the lucky red decorations are up. Now it's time to assume the role of party host. With a few simple steps you can be the yin to your party's yang.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Food
• Alcoholic beverages
• Non-alcoholic beverages
• Phone numbers for cab companies

1. Determine your drink limit. A new year is a time for celebration, not intoxication. Stay sober so you can adequately fulfill your hostess duties.

2. Greet your guests with a Chinese "Ne-Hao." Say a quick hello and thank you, then take their coats and direct them toward the food and drinks.

3. Work your way around the room. When the majority of your guests have arrived, mingle and try to have a short conversation with each guest.

4. Check the bar. Make sure you aren't running low on anything and if you are, restock.

5. Check the food. Replenish if you are running low on a dish. If you don't have any more of that dish, put the serving dish away.

6. Keep an eye out for those arriving late. Say hello to your late arrivals as soon as you notice them.

7. Pay attention to when the party is winding down. This is your cue to go to the door to say goodbye to your guests and thank them for coming.

Tips & Warnings

• Restock plates and silverware when you are replenishing the food.
• Don't forget to check barware and ice when you are checking bar supplies.
• Get your guests home safely if they have had too much to drink. Call them a cab or have a sober partygoer drive them home.
• Accept what you cannot change. Don't stress. If someone breaks a glass, let it go. If someone spills red wine on your white carpeting, try to get the stain out while it is fresh, but don't let it ruin your evening.

Resources

• Get traditional Chinese New Year Recipes at Foodnetwork.
• Learn about party hosting liabilities on Whattodrink.