Saturday, January 28th is Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year.
This year, it’s the Year of the Rooster, the 10th animal in the cycle.
To celebrate this auspicious time, check out these vibrant and often free Chinese New Year events happening in Vancouver over the next few weeks:
1. Chinese New Year Parade: Sunday, January 29th
Attracting thousands of spectators annually, the Chinese New Year Parade in downtown Vancouver’s Chinatown will have over 3,000 performers including lion dancers, marching bands, martial arts acts, and decorated floats. The parade will be on Sunday, January 29, starting at 11am at the Millennium Gate on Pender Street. This is a free event.
2. Flight of the Dragon at FlyOver Canada: Now-February 26th
For the second year in a row FlyOver Canada is celebrating Chinese New Year is the Chinese ride film Flight of the Dragon at Canada Place. This virtual flight experience (complete with wind, scents, and mist) will feature a spectacular look at China’s landscapes and culture. On now until February 26th, from 10am to 9pm daily. Admission is $20 for adults and $14 for kids (kids must be at least 40 inches to ride).
3. LunarFest: January 27, 28, and 29th
This Asian arts and culture event features live theatre, drum performances, story-telling, workshops, games, and traditional food & drink. LunarFest is definitely family-friendly and it’s free! LunarFest is at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza on January 27, 28, and 29th.
4. Year of the Rooster at International Village Mall: January 26th to January 29th
The International Village Mall, or Tinseltown, is hosting various festivities that include live performances, culinary delights, prizes, and an opportunity to purchase Chinese New Year souvenirs and gifts. Admission is free.
5. Year of the Rooster Temple Fair: January 29th
To celebrate traditional Chinese New Year, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden presents a special public event based on the Spring Festival temple fair where people entertain, trade, greet, celebrate and pray for a prosperous new year. You’ll find traditional Chinese games and activities, fortune-telling, live music, food, drinks and more. There’s also a children’s corner which includes the chance to run around and yell to scare away evil spirits. January 29th, from 10am-4pm. Admission is by donation.
Gung Hay Fat Choy!
Last modified: January 28, 2017
