Where to Celebrate Lunar New Year in Vancouver and Richmond

Lunar New Year – also known as Chinese New Year and the Spring Festival – welcomes the turn of the traditional Chinese calendar from winter to spring. The festival is steeped in more than 4,000 years of history that carry longstanding traditions like lighting firecrackers to ward off evil spirits and decorating homes in red to symbolize wealth and happiness – and this year is no exception as celebrations continue across Vancouver and Richmond.

Between late January and late February, visitors and locals will be treated to spectacularly produced, immersive events throughout both cities, collectively offering an all-senses feast for culture-seekers and families. Events include:

• Flight of the Dragon at FlyOver Canada (January 18 to February 18), where guests embark on a virtual flight-ride over China’s most spectacular landscapes while following a mythical dragon

• Lion Dance at the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch (February 10), featuring qigong and kung fu demonstrations, as well as musical performances

• Lanterns in the Garden at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden (February 16 to 17) with dazzling displays of handmade lanterns telling tales of Chinese legends, accompanied by interactive Chinese sugar painting, festive nibbles and live performances

• 12 Girls Band Celebrates Chinese New Year at the Orpheum Theatre (February 19), featuring the popular Chinese folk music group who combine traditional instruments like the xiao (vertical flute), erhu (Chinese fiddle) and yangqin (hammered dulcimer) with modern pop music elements

… and many more! Read the full list of events here.

After a day of hearty celebrations, nothing beats rolling into a comfy room where you can switch on the kettle and put up your feet. Make sure you reserve a hotel room in advance – there are tens of thousands to choose from in both Vancouver and Richmond, many within walking distance of Lunar New Year festivities. To plan your stay, click here.

For more information on Lunar New Year in Vancouver and Richmond, visit lunarfestival.com. Happy New Year!