Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year, the Spring Festival, and Asian New Year are all names you may hear used to describe this time of year.
2020 is the Year of the Rat, representing the first year in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle, and it falls on January 25th this year.
Victoria is home to numerous events every Chinese New Year. Support local artists and businesses while enjoying the rich history and exciting celebrations!
Chinese New Year Celebration
The main event! Watch a traditional Lion dance and Kung Fu demonstration at the Gate of Harmonious Interest, the entrance to Chinatown.
This event is free, but all donations will go towards the continued teaching of the Lion dance and Kung Fu locally.
- When: January 26th, 12 p.m. — 3 p.m.
- Where: Gate of Harmonious Interest, Fisgard Street
Spring Festival Spectacular
Come see the third instalment of this musical variety show in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters Victoria.
This year’s show includes performances from Ballet Étoile and Ocean Rain Arts Academy as well as a collection of local Filipino, Japanese, and Korean artists.
- When: January 31st, 7 p.m. — 9 p.m.
- Where: Dave Dunnet Community Theatre, 2121 Cadboro Bay Road
Take in some authentic Chinese cuisine
Food is one of the best parts of celebration. There are plenty of opportunities to partake in authentic Chinese cuisine this time of year:
Chinese New Year Buffet at Ma Miller’s Pub
- When: January 25th, 4:30 p.m. — 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Ma Miller’s Pub, 2903 Sooke Lake Road
Chinese New Year Fundraising Dinner
- When: February 1st, 6 p.m.
- Where: Golden City Restaurant, 721 Fisgard Street
CPA Camosun Endowment Fundraiser
- When: February 13th, 6 p.m. — 9 p.m.
- Where: Don Mee Restaurant, 538 Fisgard Street
Chinatown Walks
If you’ve never participated in one of these fascinating walking tours, now is the perfect time to go! Food, medicine, art, and religion—this 90-minute expedition explores a little bit of everything.
- When: Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.
- Where: Meet in front of Starbucks Coffee, 1689 Government Street
Asian New Year Tea Flights
Local gem Silk Road Tea is known for their high-quality, delicious teas. Stop by and sample three teas linked to prosperity, luck, and blessings, then peek into your future with an I Ching card.
Tickets are $10, and if you’re a Silk Road VIP (free signup in-store) you can bring a friend along for free!
- When: January 23rd — February 2nd, 11 a.m. — 4 p.m.
- Where: Silk Road Tea, 1624 Government Street
How will you be celebrating the Lunar New Year?
