Chinese New Year will commence around January 29 this year. Traditionally the celebrations last around 16 days and consist of honouring deities and ancestors and spending time with family.
Liverpool is a mixing pot of different cultures and people. The Chinese community here being among one of the more predominant groups. Meaning celebrating the Lunar New Year in the city is always a big occasion.
The annual Dragon and Lion parade will take place in China Town on the January 29. It starts at 11:15am and will finish at approximately 3:30pm. The Unicorn parade will follow at 12:15pm and will finish at approximately 4:00pm.
There will also be food stalls selling tradition Chinese foods and snacks. Some of the most common foods said to bring luck include dumplings (Jiaozi), fish (Dayu Darou) and spring rolls (Chun Juan).
The Museum of Liverpool will be hosting several craft sessions on February 1, 8 and 22. They are also holding a Lion Dance Workshop on February 19 at 11am, 1pm and 2pm. The classes are 45 minutes each and tickets cost £3 per child.
The Philharmonic Hall’s Music Room will play host to Harmony of the Dragon: A Chinese New Year Gala – an mesmorising musical performance. Taking place on February 9 at 8pm.
February 9 to 11, the traditional Chinese story of the Boy and the Pearl will be projected on the Bombed Out Church. From 5.30pm-9pm each night, the show, which lasts for ten minutes, will run on a loop each evening.
Bring The Fire show will see a 25-metre, illuminated dragon floating through the docks, as well as fire street theatre featuring dance and martial arts. All activities will run from 5.30-9pm February 9 to 11.
Bring The Fire will also be showcased at Chinatown on February 11 for the fire-finale at 4.30pm on the stage at Great George Square.
There will also be a host of events in Chinese restaurants and clubs across the city. Including Lunar New Year parties at Fusion and Sensation.
The city will be painted red with lanterns, wooden dragon installations designed by local schools and community groups and much more to honour the new year.
