China, Hong Kong, Singapore, even London – there’s something happening everywhere on February 10. Take your pick and celebrate in true Chinese style
f course, China has the largest celebrations on Chinese New Year’s day, but countries across the world – especially those with a significant Chinese expat population such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Philippines – will celebrate the holiday on February 10. Chinatowns around the world will also join in the festivities.
China
Various cultural activities and festivities take place all across the country during the 14-day New Year period.
Beijing
The Temple Fair is the most noteworthy New Year celebration in Beijing. It incorporates traditional cultural events, entertainment and religious worship. The fairs take place in the grounds of ancient temples.
Guangzhou
The ‘Flower City’ of China lives up to its name during the New Year celebrations as flower fairs spring up across the city.
Shanghai
Shanghai celebrates in a number of ways; a reflection of its mixed culture. The New Year countdowns at squares or beside the Huangpu River are popular among the locals and tourists alike.
Singapore
The Chingay Parade is the hallmark of New Year celebrations in Singapore. This annual carnival-like street parade is a spectacular gala of colours, cultures, resplendent floats and local and international performances. The parade is also the centrepoint of New Year celebrations in Malaysia.
Chinatown is adorned with resplendent red hues and holds its popular night market. If you’re in Singapore during the New Year celebrations, don’t miss the Chinatown Street Light-Up. Or head to Kreta Ayer Square to see dragon and lion dancers, fire eaters and dance troupes performing live.
Another popular event is the River Hongbao held on the Marina Bay Floating Platform and the Esplanade Waterfront Promenade. Lively street performances, shopping, games and fireworks – it all happens here. For lovers of the arts, the Huayi Festival showcases traditional and contemporary Chinese art, theatre, opera and music.
Hong Kong
New Year celebrations in Hong Kong are an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary events. Festivities include flower markets, fireworks and a night parade. Visit www.discoverhongkong.com for the complete events calendar.
London
The largest celebration of the Chinese New Year outside Asia of takes place in London. Because of London’s multi-cultural character, people of all nationalities partake in the festivities.
All the action happens in the West End and Chinatown. It begins in the morning with a parade through the West End that ends in Trafalgar Square, where free entertainment and stage performances (the Chinese hip-hop artists are among the most entertaining) take place through the day.
Down the road at Chinatown, there is a buzz all weekend. Revellers join in the traditional Lion Dance and other traditional activities, while stalls selling food and trinkets line the streets.
