Lunar New Year

Sydney celebrates Lunar New Year in spectacular fashion, with dazzling lion and dragon dances, dragon boat races, colourful markets and fabulous food.  Discover 12 huge zodiac lanterns on the edge of beautiful Sydney Harbour in the vibrant Circular Quay, including at the Sydney Opera House.

2019 is the Year of the Pig, which symbolises honour and optimism, with a focus on achieving great things. For the traditional Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Mongolian lunisolar calendar, it’s the start of the year and Sydney’s rich multicultural heritage forges a lively celebration.

This year the festival is from 1-10 February, though Cabramatta is holding a celebration on the 16-17 February. Enjoy night markets in Chinatown and Haymarket. Lion dances and celebrations are held across Greater Sydney, including Parramatta, Doonside and Eastwood.

Dragon Boat racing has been a Chinese cultural institution for more than 2,000 years. One of the most anticipated events of Sydney’s Lunar New Year festival, these 12 metre dragon-headed vessels race to the beat of a drum, and you can watch this exhilarating spectacle in Darling Harbour.

Lunar Eats celebrates Sydney’s amazing Asian cuisine, too. A delicious range of restaurants offer special menus. Try mouth-watering dishes at a host of restaurants serving everything from spicy delights to exquisite fusion. Or stop by the dumpling station at The Calyx in the Royal Botanic Garden.

Getting to the celebrations is easy on public transport. You can walk to Chinatown from Central Station or Town Hall Station. Darling Harbour is near Town Hall Station or a ferry ride from Circular Quay. Trains will also take you to Cabramatta, Parramatta, Eastwood, Bankstown and Doonside.