Parramatta is roaring into the Year of the Dragon, as the city gets ready to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
From art installations and cultural workshops, to street food and live entertainment, the Parramatta CBD will come alive this Saturday to mark the important holiday.
Describing the day as one of Parramatta’s largest cultural celebrations, City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Pierre Esber said the Lunar New Year is a chance to learn about the different communities celebrating the holiday.
“Our Lunar New Year event attracts large crowds to Parramatta each year and is a holiday celebrated by so many in our diverse community,” Esber said.
“The heart of Parramatta will light up with activities and decorations to awaken all your senses.”
A giant interactive dragon installation by Amigo & Amigo will fly into Parramatta Square from February 8-15. Visitors will also have the chance to explore the ancient art of traditional Chinese calligraphy and learn how to write simple characters, as well as visit the flower painting and ink stamping stalls for a creative keepsake to take home.
For the foodies, street food stalls will offer everything from traditional dragon beard candy, dumplings, noodles and potstickers to gourmet crepes, fried chicken, BBQ skewers, mochi donuts, sugar cane drinks and bubble tea.
The Happy Dragon Bar will be serving refreshing cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks to help wash it all down, including Lunar New Year-themed Dragon Sling and Korean Iced Tea beverages.
With February 10 marking the start of an auspicious year that symbolises prosperity, power and harmony, Esber is encouraging everyone to come together to enjoy the Lunar New Year celebrations in Parramatta.
“Come along to see the bright lanterns, giant interactive dragon installation and the roving dragon and lion dancing in the square. And don’t miss the amazing street food!” Esber added.
“There is plenty to look forward to as we welcome the Year of the Dragon. I encourage you to come along and immerse yourself in the festivities with your family and friends.”
Australian-Chinese filmmaker and actor William Suen will emcee the live entertainment on stage, with community and folk performances from 4pm-10pm. DJs will also be playing music by Asian artists from a range of genres and around the world.
At PHIVE, a Chinese poet will help visitors write their 2024 wishes to be placed on the wishing tree and a special tea stall will offer visitors a taste of Chinese tea culture and its rich history.
From February 6-8, PHIVE will also hold free Year of the Dragon-themed workshops including stamp carving, cooking, storytelling and amulet card making so locals can exchange stories and bring good fortune for the year ahead.
To find out more go to http://www.atparramatta.com/lunar-new-year.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.