Celebrating Lunar New Year in London Chinatown 🇬🇧

London’s Chinatown is one of the best places in the UK to experience the vibrant and energetic celebrations of Lunar New Year. Every year, thousands of people gather in the heart of the city to welcome the new year with traditional performances, delicious food, and a dazzling parade. If you’re thinking of celebrating Lunar New Year in London, here’s everything you need to know! When and Where? London’s Lunar New Year celebrations usually take place on the closest weekend to the actual date, with the main events happening in Chinatown, Trafalgar Square, and Shaftesbury Avenue. There will be parade and cultural performances from 10:00 - 18:00. What to expect? • New Year Parade - Starting at 10:00 from Trafalgar Square. Travel along Charing Cross Road then down to China Town. • Traditional dragon and lion dances – throughout Chinatown from 12:00-18:00. • Live music and cultural shows – Featuring everything from Chinese opera to contemporary dance. You can see the shows in both China town and Trafalgar square. Chinatown’s Festive Atmosphere Red and gold is the color of Lunar New Year, meaning luck and prosperity. You can see street vendors selling lucky charms, red envelopes, and festive treats. Lunar New Year Foods Food is the most important element of Lunar New Year! Here are a few must-try dishes you shouldn’t miss: • Turnip cake – A savory, pan-fried delicacy made from grated daikon radish, rice flour, and a mix of ingredients like Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and mushrooms. It has a crispy golden crust on the outside and a soft, flavorful inside, symbolizing good fortune. • Sticky Rice Cake – A sweet treat that symbolizes growth and progress. • Sesame Balls – Crispy, chewy, and filled with sweet red bean or lotus paste, these symbolize prosperity. • Deep-Fried Glutinous Rice Dumplings – A crispy, savory snack with a delicious pork filling. Tips for Enjoying the Celebration 1. Arrive early – The streets get very crowded, so if you want a good view of the parade, get there early. 2. Wear something red – Red symbolizes good luck and happiness in Chinese culture. 3. Try different restaurants – Many places have set menus for the occasion, so explore different flavors! 4. Bring cash – Some food stalls may only accept cash payments. 5. Respect traditions – If you’re watching a lion dance or cultural performance, be mindful of the space and enjoy the show. Lunar New Year in London’s Chinatown is a truly magical experience. From the lively parade to the delicious food and cultural performances, it’s an incredible way to immerse yourself in Chinese traditions right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or it’s an annual tradition, celebrating Lunar New Year in London is a memorable and joyful experience. Have you celebrated Lunar New Year in London before? Let me know your favorite moments in the comments below! #celebrateit #londontraveltip