Carlsberg unveils limited-edition Lunar New Year cans

Carlsberg has introduced limited-edition can and pack designs to mark the upcoming Lunar New Year, featuring the brand’s iconic Hop Leaf alongside motifs representing the Year of the Horse.

According to the company, the Year of the Horse symbolises energy, freedom, bravery and good fortune. The new designs are set against a dark green background with red and gold accents, colours traditionally associated with happiness and prosperity for the year ahead. Inspired by the historic Gilding Lacquer Art Technique, long used on luxury items as a symbol of affluence across Asian societies, the final artwork blends traditional craftsmanship with artificial intelligence to create a contemporary interpretation.

Since 2021, Carlsberg has celebrated Lunar New Year with Chinese zodiac-themed limited-edition packs, supporting the Carlsberg Group’s broader strategy to strengthen its premium portfolio and accelerate growth across Asia. The 2026 limited-edition packs will be available through February across key markets including China, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam.

The campaign will extend beyond packaging, featuring social media activations and a collaboration with Chinese rapper Skai Isyourgod, who has created a Lunar New Year-inspired remix of his track “Blueprint Supreme.”

In 2024, Carlsberg partnered with designer Ofen Hu to launch visually striking Year of the Dragon packaging across multiple Asian markets. Meanwhile, other brands have also tapped into festive redesigns, with Sunkist Growers previously unveiling red and gold citrus cartons to celebrate the Year of the Snake.