Ring in the Year of the Rat at Australia’s most exciting events
The Chinese New Year is set to kick off this Friday, 24 January. 2020 marks the Year of the Rat and all around Australia, people are celebrating with food, festivities and fireworks.
Here’s our rundown on the best Chinese New Year events across Australia:
Sydney
This Chinese New Year, Sydney will be hosting over 90 events, making it one of the biggest new year celebrations outside of Asia. The streets of Chinatown will be brought to life from 25 January, with street performers, lion dancers, art installations and, of course, an abundance of food trucks, stalls and restaurants. Be sure to snap a photo in front of the two-metre high robotic rat statue, created by artist Claudia Chan Shaw.
For a full visual spectacle, take a wander around Circle Quay to witness 12 dazzling animal artworks. The Lunar Lanterns, open from 31 January to 9 February, will showcase all 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, blending modern technology with classic Chinese techniques.
Melbourne
Just like Sydney, Chinese New Year is the biggest event on Melbourne’s calendar. Over 16 days, the city’s most iconic landmarks and neighbourhoods will be joining in on the festivities. The official Chinese New Year Melbourne Festival will open on 24 January at Queensbridge Square, filled with exciting performances, delectable food and a brilliant light show to dazzle the whole family.
Brisbane
Head over to Fortitude Valley’s Chinatown Mall on 1-2 February for an action-packed programme of fire shows, lion and dragon dancers, traditional music and interactive workshops. Festivities kick off from 4pm on 1 February. Witness a brilliant fireworks show, be entertained by the Roving Chinese Grandma, or learn to make earrings at the Ever Art Earring workshop.
Perth
With a full schedule of events, installations and celebrations, you can’t miss Chinese New Year at Brookfield Place. Kicking off 25 January to 8 February, Perth’s iconic precinct will feature a thrilling lion dancing performance from Ging Mo Academy. A luminous canopy of lanterns will light up Georges Lane, with dramatic lion statues installed throughout the precinct.
