Whether you stayed in and watched Jools Holland’s Hootenanny, went to a friend’s house for food and wine, or were out clubbing until the early hours of the morning. Bristolians had a blast all over the city this New Year’s Eve. But are you ready to celebrate all over again when the Chinese New Year comes around this month (January 22)?
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is a major holiday in China. The celebrations mark the beginning of the lunar calendar, which follows the moon cycles, the traditional Chinese calendar. Places like South Korea, Vietnam and other East Asian countries also heavily celebrate the event. Traditionally, it is a time to honour deities and ancestors, as well as feast and visit family.
This year in Bristol, however, most of the major celebrations will be taking place the weekend after. The largest of which will take place at the Chinese supermarket Wai Yee Hong in Eastville. On Saturday, January 28, the family-run supermarket will host its annual free festivities with traditional lion dances, kung fu demonstrations, Chinese folk music performances and much more. Head here to learn more.
The Festive New Year Market will also return where you can taste a wide variety of Asian foods. Eatchu will serve up gyoza, while Duckman cooks some Cantonese roast meats and She Sells Sushi sells, well, sushi and other Japanese treats. Other stalls at the market will include 5 Foot Way, Desy Thai, Gopal’s Curry Shack, Ninjo, and Wok ‘n’ Roll. And why not sip on some bubble tea while having your face painted? Head down from 11.00 am.
Elsewhere in the city that weekend (January 28 to 29), Bristol Museum & Art Gallery will also be celebrating the Lunar New Year. A host of performances and activities will take place at one of Bristol’s best art galleries to celebrate Chinese and Korean culture. Learn how to paper fold and write in Chinese, watch traditional lion dances and folk music, as well as a host of other activities throughout the museum. For a full programme of events head here.
So if you’re turning 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84 or 96 this year, and even if you’re not, make sure to ring in the Year of the Rabbit for Lunar New Year this January.