Happy Chinese New Year! Or should we say “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy New Year in Mandarin) or “San Nin Faai Lok” (Cantonese)? Did you know that London is the biggest city to celebrate this event outside of Asia? It’s no secret that we know how to throw a party – and this one is no different. To celebrate the Year of the Dog from Friday 16th February, here are 5 of the best places to celebrate the event in London.
1. Chinese karaoke at Lucky Voice
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 in to your very own private karaoke room, press the "thirsty" button for a round of lychee martinis or Tiger beer and sing away!
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. Join the free Chinese New Year parade
Chinese New Year celebrations begin officially on Sunday 18th February from 11am at Trafalgar Square or 12pm in Chinatown or the West End. From there, expect firecrackers, Chinese acrobatics, flying dragon and lion dances, street food stalls and the traditional Lions’ eye-dotting ceremony.
4. Dine at a Chinese Food Market in Chelsea
For those who fancy something a little different, Duke of York Square in Sloane Square will be hosting a Chinese Food Market on Saturday 17th February. Expect a traditional lion dance from 12pm, lantern quizzes throughout the day and plenty of delicious street food! As it’s the Year of the Dog, it makes sense that your four-legged friends should be receiving special treatment! Spice up your weekend dog walk and enter your pooch to the “Best Dressed Dog” competition with Pet Pavilion and treat them to pawsecco, puppycinos and treatments too.
5. Eat like a KING at Bang Bang Oriental Foodhall
Have a light lunch and save yourself for a tummy bursting feast at Bang Bang Oriental Foodhall in Colindale! They’ll be celebrating Chinese New Year from 7:00pm. Entry is free and events include a Wing Chun demonstration, chopstick challenge and traditional Chinese music will be performed on stage.