Parramatta will come alive as vibrant art installations, delicious street food, live entertainment, cultural workshops and roving performances take over Parramatta and Centenary Square to celebrate Lunar New Year next month.
Year of the Dragon celebrations will kick off from 4pm on Saturday 10 February, marking the start of an auspicious year that symbolises prosperity, power and harmony.
City of Parramatta Cr Lord Mayor Pierre Esber said Lunar New Year is one of Parramatta’s largest cultural celebrations and is a chance to learn about the different communities celebrating the holiday.
“Our Lunar New Year event attracts large crowds to Parramatta each year and is a holiday celebrated by so many in our diverse community,” Cr Esber said.
“The heart of Parramatta will light up with activities and decorations to awaken all your senses. Come along to see the bright lanterns, giant interactive dragon installation and the roving dragon and lion dancing in the square. And don’t miss the amazing street food!
“There is plenty to look forward to as we welcome the Year of the Dragon. I encourage you to come along and immerse yourself in the festivities with your family and friends.”
A stunning giant interactive dragon installation by Amigo & Amigo will call Parramatta Square home from 8-15 February.
Foodies are in for a treat with street food stalls offering everything from traditional dragon beard candy, dumplings, noodles and potstickers to gourmet crepes, fried chicken, BBQ skewers, mochi donuts, sugar cane drinks and bubble tea. The Happy Dragon Bar will be serving refreshing cocktails, beer wine and non-alcoholic drinks to help wash it all down, including Lunar New Year-themed Dragon Sling and Korean Iced Tea beverages.
Explore the ancient art of traditional Chinese calligraphy and learn how to write simple characters and visit the flower painting and ink stamping stalls for a creative keepsake to take home.
Australian-Chinese filmmaker and actor, William Suen is set to emcee the live entertainment on stage with community and folk performances from 4-10pm and DJs playing music by Asian artists from a range of genres and around the world.
For those feeling lucky, there are prizes to win at the Games Container. Pick up a Lunar Passport, collect all six stamps to become a Lunar traveller. Limited passports and prizes available – get in early so you don’t miss out.
At PHIVE, a Chinese poet will help visitors write their 2024 wishes to be placed on the wishing tree and a special tea stall will offer visitors a taste of Chinese tea culture and its rich history.
From 6-8 February, PHIVE will also hold free Year of the Dragon-themed workshops including stamp carving, cooking, storytelling and amulet card making so you can exchange stories, unleash your creativity and bring good fortune for the year ahead.
