London knows how to throw a party, and when it comes to the Chinese New Year, the capital pulls out all the stops. The city’s blend of tradition, multiculturalism, and pure love for a good knees-up makes it one of the best places outside Asia to ring in the Lunar New Year.
If you’re planning on celebrating the Spring Festival in London, whether you’re after a vibrant Chinese New Year parade, a night of music, or just somewhere to soak up the atmosphere with a drink in hand, here are five of the best spots to ensure your New Year’s off to a flying start.
And yes, there’s karaoke. Obviously.
When is Chinese New Year 2025 and What Does it Celebrate?
Chinese New Year 2025 begins on Wednesday, 29th January, marking the start of the Year of the Snake. Unlike the fixed date of 1st January on the Gregorian calendar, the Lunar New Year varies each year, aligning with the lunar calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycles.
This celebration lasts for 15 days, culminating in the vibrant Lantern Festival.
The Year of the Snake is one of the twelve zodiac animals in the Chinese zodiac, and each year is believed to be influenced by the characteristics of the zodiac animal it represents. The Snake is considered a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation.
People born in the Year of the Snake are often seen as thoughtful, wise, and good at making decisions. In Chinese culture, the Snake is also associated with elegance, mystery, and the pursuit of knowledge, making 2025 a year that encourages careful planning and introspection.
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a time for family gatherings, honouring ancestors, and starting afresh with hopes of good luck, health, and prosperity for the coming year. Traditions include thoroughly cleaning the house to sweep away any lingering bad luck and decorating with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cuttings that symbolise good fortune and happiness.
Top 5 Places To Celebrate Chinese New Year in London
1. Karaoke at Lucky Voice
No celebration is complete without a bit of music, and what better way to bring in the Year of the Snake than by belting out your favourite tunes with friends? Lucky Voice, London’s top karaoke destination, offers the perfect setting to take your Chinese New Year celebrations to the next level.
Lucky Voice is known for its private karaoke rooms, where you and your mates can sing your hearts out without a care in the world. These rooms are kitted out with state-of-the-art sound systems, touchscreen song selectors, and a playlist that spans decades and genres.
Whether you’re in the mood for some classic pop, a bit of rock, or even a K-pop hit, Lucky Voice has you covered. And because it’s all in a private room, you can go as wild or as mellow as you like—no judging here!
Each Lucky Voice location—whether you’re in Soho, Holborn, or Islington,—offers a unique atmosphere, but the experience remains the same: fun, laughter, and music. The karaoke rooms are available for groups of all sizes, making it an ideal spot whether you’re out with a large group of friends or just a few close ones.
Learning Chinese and want to test your Mandarin singing skills? Our venues have an array of Chinese songs from chart-topping hits to nostalgic tunes by BEYOND and Wang Fei. Just book yourselves into your very own private karaoke room, press the "thirsty" button for a round of lychee martinis or Tiger beer and sing away!
Read More: Where To Find the Best Cocktail Making Class London
2. Learn about traditional Han Chinese clothing
Discover the history of Chinese clothing and recreate a traditional outfit from the Han dynasty via China Exchange. The dressers will style your hair, apply make-up and teach you a series of traditional Han dance moves! Perfect for all ages and a great way of immersing yourself into the spirit of CNY whilst learning about its history.
3. Chinese New Year Parade
When it comes to celebrating Chinese New Year, there’s no place quite like London’s Chinatown. It’s the heart and soul of the festivities, drawing crowds from all over the city who come for the dazzling decorations, mouth-watering food, and infectious energy.
The area is transformed into a sea of red and gold, with lanterns hanging from every possible ledge, making it a feast for the eyes and a joy to wander through.
But Chinatown isn’t just about looks. It’s where you’ll find the most authentic Chinese New Year experience, complete with dragon and lion dancing stage performances, firecrackers, and cultural performances that offer a true taste of Chinese tradition.
4. Trafalgar Square: The Big Bash
When Trafalgar Square gets involved in a celebration, you know it’s going to be big. As one of the main hubs for London’s Lunar New Year festivities, the square is a must-visit if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and a full day of entertainment.
The celebrations here are on a grand scale, with a massive stage set up to host performances ranging from traditional Chinese dances to contemporary acts.
The square is usually packed with people enjoying the festivities, which also include street food stalls selling everything from dim sum to bubble tea. It’s a great place to experience the energy of the New Year, especially when you’re surrounded by the sounds of live music and the buzz of the crowd.
5. Southbank Centre
For a more cultural approach to the Spring Festival, Southbank Centre is where you’ll want to be. Known for its diverse range of events, Southbank is the perfect spot if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the artistic side of the New Year. The centre typically hosts a variety of activities, including traditional performances, art installations, and workshops that offer a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.
One of the highlights is the live music, which often features traditional Chinese instruments and contemporary fusion performances. It’s a great way to experience something a bit different and soak up the New Year’s atmosphere in a more relaxed setting.
But the fun doesn’t have to end there. After a day of cultural exploration, why not switch gears and head over to Lucky Voice Islington? It’s not too far from Southbank and offers a completely different kind of entertainment—private karaoke rooms where you can channel your inner pop star.
Sing your heart out, sip on some cocktails, and enjoy a night of music with your friends. After all, the New Year is all about joy and celebration, and there’s no better way to express that than through song.
Ready to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Style?
With so many places to celebrate, you’re spoiled for choice. And with a bit of karaoke thrown into the mix, you’re guaranteed a good time no matter where you end up. So grab your friends, warm up your vocal chords, and get ready to welcome the Year of the Snake with a song and a smile.
We can cater to many events with our handy drinks packages and fantastic private karaoke rooms, including, hen nights, birthdays, corporate team building and cocktail masterclasses.
Walk in, dance out. Book now for an awesome team day out!