Chinese New Year is fast approaching, so let’s take the opportunity to find out more!
Chinese New Year is an important part of the Chinese culture, a time to sweep out the old and welcome the new. Each year, a different animal from the Chinese zodiac is used to celebrate and 2018 is the year of the dog.
This year, Chinese New Year takes place on February 16th, and the celebrations last for around two weeks. The Chinese New Year date changes from year to year in accordance with the Lunar Calendar.
Celebrations are often colourful and elaborate, with street parties, lion dances, firecrackers and bell ringing. It is tradition to gather for a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve and clean on New Year’s Day, sweeping away any bad fortune.
Want to join the Chinese New Year celebrations in your city? Check out what’s on near you!
Sydney – Chinese New Year Festival
Stroll around Circular Quay to see 12 larger than life animal signs of the Lunar zodiac and check out the range of community performances.
Melbourne – City and Regional Celebrations
Festivities will be happening at the Crown, Zoo and South Warf. Not in the city? No problem! Check out the celebrations happening in Ballarat, Bendigo and Ararat.
Brisbane – Lunar New Year in the City
Head to Queen Street Mall to see Kung Fu Performers, lion and dragon dancers, ice sculptures and more!
Adelaide – China Town Street Party
A street party will line China Town on February 17th from 12pm-10pm. With live performances, lion dancers, and local wineries participating in the celebration.
Canberra – Chinese New Year Concert
The prestigious Chinese Orchestra of China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater are holding a concert ‘Treasures of a Nation’ to celebrate.
Perth – Chinese New Year Fair
A multicultural extravaganza is being held on Sunday 18th from 12pm-9pm and includes a parade, stalls, cultural activities, lion and dragon dancing, multicultural concert, games and rides.
Tasmania – Lunar New Year Festival
Organised by the Chinese Community Association of Tasmania, this festival is held within the picturesque Parliament House Lawns, with lots of family focused activities. The kid’s even have their own Kid’s play area, the Panda Zone!
Darwin – Chinese New Year Dinner at the Oaks
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with an amazing Asian inspired buffet at Oaks Elan.
