Star-studded food demonstrations, the world’s most-Instagrammed cake, a 12-metre giant installation, high-pole lion dancing and firecrackers are set to headline Parramatta’s Lunar New Year celebrations in the CBD and Epping for the first time.
This year’s program has doubled in size with a cosplay competition, Asian-fusion food stalls, live entertainment and a wishing tree at Parramatta Square from 4-9pm on February 20 and for the first time ever at Epping’s Boronia Park from 4-9pm on February 21.
A feast for the senses awaits at Boronia Park with celebrity food demonstrations of the world-famous Strawberry Watermelon cake by Black Star Pastry founder Christopher Thé, Cantonese dumplings and sesame crusted prawns by Masterchef alumni Therese Lum and Sarah Tiong, Taiwanese hand-pulled noodles by Hungry Paulie owner Arthur Chu and Shanghai-inspired lumpia by Filipino Food Movement.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Martin Zaiter said Lunar New Year celebrations continue to grow year-on-year with 20,000 expected to join the festivities in Parramatta and Epping.
“Lunar New Year is celebrated by many in our community and we’re excited to expand our event across both our CBD and our suburbs this year, giving even more people the chance to get involved as we celebrate the Year of the Horse,” he said.
“Our Parramatta event is perfect for people who have finished work and want to enjoy Parramatta’s nightlife at its best with DJs, dancing, karaoke and mahjong and the Epping event is great for families looking for cultural entertainment and interactive workshops such as tai chi, calligraphy and cooking demonstrations from your favourite celebrities.”
‘Destination/Arrival’, is a giant photo-worthy installation created by western Sydney artist, illustrator and animator Chris Yee takes inspiration from traditional motifs of Chinese Paifang and uses contemporary design techniques to reflect the modern Asian Australian.
Yee said his installation symbolises Parramatta’s rich diversity, vibrant culture and transformation.
“I wanted to create something that looks traditional from afar but has a modern twist and vibrancy akin to the diverse personality of Parramatta up close, it’s been really important for me to personally connect with the local community and help champion creative talent in Western Sydney,” Yee said.
“The Fire Horse leads us on a bold year of excitement and action for a promising future. It takes remnants of the past and leads us into something new, transformative and radical.
“I am proud to complete my three-year art tenancy with the City of Parramatta with this vibrant installation that echoes the growth, journey and excitement the city has experienced.”
The installation will be located at Parramatta Square from February 17 to March 4.
Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper said Lunar New Year is a special time to celebrate life, family and culture and to express gratitude, hope and joy.
“I’m proud that we could support the council’s exciting Lunar New Year event, which continues to grow and expand each year,” Kamper said.
“Lunar New Year is an integral part of the state’s cultural calendar, and the NSW Government wishes all communities celebrating a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.”
Roving entertainment including the God of Wealth, Peking Opera costume characters, lion dancing and a spectacular firecracker display will also keep crowds entertained at both Parramatta and Epping events.
For more information about Parramatta’s Lunar New Year events, visit http://www.atparramatta.com/lunar-new-year
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.