Lunar New Year

Celebrate Lunar New Year in spectacular style in Sydney. The year begins on February 12 and the city hosts exciting celebrations through to February 21, with street parades, lion dancing, huge lanterns, pop up markets, art installations, dragon boat races and plenty of delicious food.

The Year of the Ox

2021 is the Year of the Ox. The ox is the second sign in the Chinese zodiac cycle, and is considered faithful, honest and hard working and makes great contributions to the development of the society.

Friends enjoying a night out at the Chinese New Year Lantern Festival 2018 at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour, Sydney City

Lunar New Year in the city

Haymarket is the centre of Sydney’s Lunar New Year celebrations, with Lunar Spectacular Shows featuring a variety of cultures and performances including contemporary and traditional dance, Japanese hip hop and Korean drumming.

Dine on a lunar feast, sumptuous banquets, traditional Asian dishes and feasting galore – bring the family into the city and celebrate the Lunar New Year at a participating venue. The Chinese Garden of Friendship will host a variety of interactive workshops including calligraphy and lantern decorating workshops, meditation sessions, traditional tea ceremonies and Chinese brush painting.

Lion dancer performing, Sydney during Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Sydney City

At Circular Quay, the CBD and Haymarket, 12 huge lunar lanterns representing the animals of the zodiac will be on display. Then head over to the lantern-strewn Lunar New Year markets at The Rocks to pick up gifts, jewellery, art and food.

Couple enjoying a night out at the Chinese New Year Lantern Festival at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour

Lunar New Year in North Sydney

Chatswood is hosting a four-week festival from the 3 - 28 February 2021 to celebrate the Year of the Ox, featuring a comedy night, the Golden Market, traditional dancing and art exhibitions.

Events