Chinese New Year Celebrations in Yorkshire and beyond

Chinese New Year falls on 16th February this year and there’s lots going on to celebrate it locally, nationally and internationally.

First, we look at Yorkshire, where Shimu has its showroom and HQ. At Leeds Town Hall on Monday 5th February, the Chinese Community School hosts the Chinese New Year Celebration: Rhythm of China, to celebrate the Year of the Dog. There will be music performed by the Chinese Traditional Music Orchestra which consists of talented young people originating from Guang Zhou, China. Local artists along with youth music groups will also be performing using traditional instruments.

During the half term school holidays, from Tuesday 13th until Friday 16th February, Leeds City Museum will be celebrating the New Year with crafts and activities inspired by the Chinese Zodiac. The activities are 10am until 12pm and 1 until 3pm and you can just drop in. On Tuesday 13th February there will be a special day at the museum: Dogs and Lion Dancing. This looks set to be a great day for dog lovers and those who love finding out about animals at the museum!

On Sunday 18th February, the Leeds Chinese Community Association will transform Leeds Town Hall with dancing, music, calligraphy, tai chi and kung fu to celebrate the Year of the Dog. There’ll also be stalls with food, crafts and face painting.

The Bradford Chinese School are holding a Chinese New Year party on Saturday 10th February at Titus Salt School starting at 1pm, which is sponsored by Bradford Council.

Festivities in the large Chinese community in central London take place across the West End, from Shaftesbury Avenue in the north down to Trafalgar Square.

There are lively activities and foodie treats in Chinatown, Leicester Square offers family-friendly entertainment and, while Trafalgar Square hosts the main stage performances, more stages can be found on Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road. 

In Manchester, events will take place throughout the city from Friday February 16th to Sunday February 18th. The celebrations conclude on Sunday 18th February with the stunning dragon parade, accompanied by traditional lion dancing, martial arts displays, food stalls, a fun fair with over 20 rides on Charlotte Street, and a huge fireworks display at 6pm.

 Happy New Year to all Shimu‘s customers, wherever you choose to celebrate it!