Chinese New Year is coming! Outside of Asia, London hosts the largest Chinese New Year festivities in the world. There’s a lot going on every year in celebration, so if you want to get into the spirit, here’s A Lady in London’s guide to Chinese New Year events in London.

Chinese New Year Events in London

Chinese New Year Events in London

From Chinatown to Trafalgar Square, London museums to London homes, there’s plenty to entertain over Chinese New Year in the UK capital.

Whether you like parades or exhibitions, delicious food or lion dances, there’s something going on in London for you.

Chinese New Year Events in Chinatown, London

The most logical place to start your Chinese New Year celebrations in London is in Chinatown. Sandwiched between Leicester Square and Soho, it’s right in the heart of the city and decorated with a million lanterns.

I walk by every year, and I always love seeing the sky full of color. It’s worth a special trip to Chinatown to see the decorations.

Chinatown, London

But my favorite part of any celebration is food, and Chinese New Year in London has it in abundance. Chinatown’s restaurants do a busy trade during the period, so remember to book ahead if you plan to eat there.

For a traditional lunar new year meal, make sure to have fish—which symbolizes abundance—a whole roast duck, and desserts like dumplings—traditional in the north of China—and clementines—auspicious fruits that bring luck and prosperity.

Chinatown Restaurants, London

Chinese New Year Events in Trafalgar Square

In Trafalgar Square, the annual Chinese New Year festival in London winds its way to Chinatown as ten lion teams participate in one of the biggest lion dances in Europe.

Throughout the day, dancers, acrobats, and dragons perform in the square, and the grand finale features animal-themed dances and pyrotechnics around Nelson’s Column. It’s one of the best Chinese New Year events in London.

Chinatown Lanterns in London

Chinese New Year Events at London Museums

The National Gallery, Young V&A, and other museums often host family events for Chinese New Year in London.

In some years, the National Maritime Museum celebrates British East Asian heritage with workshops, performances, and activities for families.

Chinatown, London Lanterns

Chinese New Year at Home

If you really want to get into the Chinese New Year spirit, you can start at home. One tradition is to thoroughly clean your house to remove the old and welcome the new.

But a more fun one is to decorate with red hanging lanterns and put on something red for good luck. Time to dig out those amazing heels!

Chinese New Year Events in London

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to Chinese New Year events in London and that it’s gotten you excited to celebrate the lunar new year this year.

Gung hay fat choy (that’s Cantonese for “wishing you great happiness and prosperity”)!

What are your favorite Chinese New Year events in London?

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Chinese New Year Events in London

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