Chinese New Year next falls on 12 February 2020. Prepare yourself for the festivities in Chinatowns across the world with our handy guide below.
London
Chinese population: 124,250
The main Chinese New Year celebrations take place in London’s Chinatown – the historic streets that sit between the tourist hubs of Leicester Square and hip Soho. The Chinese New Year parade passes from there via the West End to Trafalgar Square, where there are stage performances and all-day entertainment.
Los Angeles
Chinese population: 566,968
Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown kick off with a midnight ceremony at Thien Hau Temple. And while there is, of course, a parade, if you’re after something different, the city’s Beverly Center mall hosts a special WeChat mascot and sticker workshop. Universal Studios is also celebrating the festival with a Kung Fu Panda event and LA’s Chinatown hosts a block party to celebrate.
San Francisco
Chinese population: 629,243
San Francisco is home to one of the biggest Chinese New Year parades outside of Asia. The event has been held since the 1860s. The city also marks the occasion with a flower market, basketball jamboree, Miss Chinatown USA pageant and a street fair.
Sydney
Chinese population: 487,976
Sydney hosts over 80 events to celebrate Chinese New Year across the city. Check out the fun on Lunar New Year’s Day as Haymarket laneways transform into a street party, watch the dragon boat races in Darling Harbour and take a selfie with giant lanterns in Circular Quay.
Vancouver
Chinese population: 411,470
In Richmond, you’ll find 10-course Chinese banquets. The traditional flower bazaar takes place at the International Buddhist Temple and you’ll find many cultural events across the city, including art exhibits at the Oakridge Centre and a dance performance at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
