How the Lunar New Year is Celebrated Around the World
Zora Wang
26 Jan 2024
The Lunar New Year, which is also famously called the Chinese New Year follows a calendar based on the moon's cycle instead of the sun's. In 2024, the Lunar New Year begins on February 10th and ends up with the Lantern Festival on February 24th. Although, it is celebrated in many other countries as well as China. Keep reading to learn more about where and how the Lunar New Year is celebrated around the world.
The Lunar New Year is celebrated across various Asian countries like South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In China, each year is associated with one of 12 zodiac animals, and 2024 is the Year of the Dragon.
However, in other Asian countries, the zodiac signs may differ slightly. For example, in Thailand and Malaysia, the dragon is replaced by the mysterious snake. It's known as Nāga, a half-human, half-serpent being. In Nepal, the dragon is replaced by the Eagle.
Following the footsteps of Asian immigrants, big cities across the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia join in the Lunar New Year celebrations. It's a great chance to cherish the traditions of your culture and share them with your local friends. Let's see what Lunar New Year events are happening around the world.
United States
Firecrackers have long been believed to ward off bad luck. But to kids, they're just a fun way to prank friends. Have you ever tried sneakily setting off firecrackers to startle your friends? Or how about tossing one into a puddle to splash a friend?
Then there's the legend behind lion dancing. Ages ago, a lion threatened a village until the villagers defeated it. In celebration, they mimicked the lion's movements, which gave birth to lion dancing—a symbol of good fortune.
New York: Spark with Firecrackers and Lion Dancing
Date: 10 Feb 2024
Time: 11:00-15:30
Location: Forsyth Street
Date: 10 Feb 2024
Time: 17:00
Location: Pearl River Mart, Soho
San Francisco: Explore the Flower Market and New Year Parade
The New Year Flower Market (Huashi) is a beloved tradition. Despite its name, it's not just about flowers. Beyond flowers, you'll discover plants like Kumquat and lucky bamboo, believed to bring prosperity. These markets also feature booths selling snacks, decorations, and more. This vibrant tradition has made its way to San Francisco. It reflects the lively atmosphere of Chinese celebrations in San Francisco.
It's interesting how Chinese traditions in America have been shaped by American customs. Parades aren't a usual sight in China. However, since 1860, Chinese communities in San Francisco have adopted this American thing to mark the new year. The parade features vibrant flags, lanterns, drums, and firecrackers.
Date: 3-4 Feb 2024
Time: 10:00-18:00
Location: Grant Ave between Sacramento & Broadway
Date: 24 Feb
Location: Grant Ave
Australia
The Dragon Boat Festival is a distinct celebration in China. It usually happens in May with boat races and rice dumpling (zongzi) eating as highlights. However, in Sydney, it's observed as part of the Spring Festival. It's quite a surprise for many Chinese since it falls in February, which is summer in Australia.
Attending a New Year's concert is uncommon for Chinese. However, trying something like a Symphony Orchestra or jazz concert could be a fun experience this year.
Sydney: Enjoy Dragon Boat Racing
Date: 16-18 Feb 2024
Time: 8:00-17:00
Location: Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Park
Melbourne: Attend a New Year Concert
Date: 16 Feb 2024
Time: 20:00-21:50
Location: Hawthorn Arts Centre, 360 Burwood Road, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122
Date: 17 Feb 2024
Time: 19:30
Location: Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Rd
United Kingdom
London: Experience the New Year Parade and Exhibitions
During Lunar New Year, the celebrations are lively and bustling. In London, you'll find the biggest gathering of lions and dragons in Europe at the New Year Parade. And don't miss the Lions' Eye-Dotting Ceremony in Trafalgar Square. Painting the lions' eyes red is a symbolic act to awaken them and prepare them for the festivities. It's the perfect way to kick off the event, which includes dancing, music, and martial arts performances.
Looking for something a bit more low-key? Check out the clockwork exhibition. It's a fantastic chance to explore Chinese history and antiques, with a collection dating back 300 years.
Date: 11 Feb 2024
Time: 10:00
Location: Duncannon Street
Festivities at Trafalgar Square
Date: 11 Feb 2024
Time: 11:00
Location: Trafalgar Square
Date: 1 Feb – 2 June 2024
Time: 10:00-18:00
Location: Science Museum
Canada
Vancouver: Join the Craft Workshop
In Vancouver, Lunar New Year brings a variety of activities, from lantern-making workshops to art markets and exhibitions. The dragon takes on a new meaning. It means freedom and encourages us to reimagine ourselves as free spirits.
Additionally, you can also explore your artistic side through the lantern bamboo project. You can weave your own lanterns and even have the chance to showcase them in the streets. It's a wonderful way to get involved and celebrate the new year in a creative way.
Date: 10, 11, & 18 Feb 2024
Time: 13:00-16:00
Location: 1400 Johnston Street
Date: 10, 11, 17, 19, 25 Feb 2024
Time: 11:00-15:30
Location: Ocean Artworks – Covered outdoor public space & pavilion
However you choose to celebrate the Lunar New Year with your local community, we understand that family reunions are at the heart of the festivities. If you're unable to be with your loved ones in person this year, Ding is here to help you stay connected. Send your loved ones a top-up or a gift card in just seconds.
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