More than 7000 people attended the Dickson Lunar New Year celebration in 2023. Photo: City Renewal Authority.
It’s time to bid farewell to the dragon and embrace the Year of the Snake, arriving on 29 January.
As the sixth sign of the Chinese zodiac, the snake symbolises wisdom, elegance, and mystery. People born in 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001 or 2013, and those celebrating their birth year in 2025, are said to possess sharp intellects, natural charm, and an enigmatic aura.
Lunar New Year is all about family, traditions, and food. With its vibrant multicultural community and passion for delicious cuisine, Canberra offers plenty of places to welcome the Year of the Snake. We have rounded up events and activities for a festive outing with your friends and family.
A three-metre-tall wooden dragon sculpture made by Canberra’s KOITOYA studio in 2024 was admired by many. Will this year bring a stunning snake sculpture to mark the occasion? Photo: City Renewal Authority.
Canberra Lunar New Year Festival in Dickson
When: Saturday, 1 February from 10 am to 10 pm
Where: Woolley Street, Dickson
Cost: Free.
Dickson’s much-loved Lunar New Year Festival is back on 1 February, 2025! Supported by the City Renewal Authority, the celebration will again transform Woolley Street into a bustling hub of traditional food stalls, cultural performances, live music, workshops, and more.
In previous years, visitors have admired zodiac sculptures such as the metal rabbit and wooden dragon displayed along the street. We can look forward to seeing whether this year will feature a stunning snake sculpture to mark the occasion. Beyond the festival, Dickson’s restaurants are always worth exploring for even more culinary delights.
With large crowds expected, visitors are encouraged to use public transport and plan their trips. Check out the City Renewal Authority website, or its Facebook page for more details.
Celebrate this Lunar New Year with your family at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra. Photo: Hyatt Hotel Canberra.
Buffet at Hyatt Hotel
When: Wednesday, 29 January and Saturday, 1 February
Where: 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla
Cost: $108 per adult; $54 for children aged 6-12.
If you’re looking to celebrate with an indulgent feast, the Hyatt Hotel Canberra is the ideal destination. Its Promenade Cafe will host a Lunar New Year buffet featuring fresh seafood, authentic Asian dishes, and a live lion dance performance by the Prosperous Mountain Lion Dance Troupe at 7 o’clock on both nights.
Reservations are essential, so book your table early for a delightful family evening.
Canberra’s Chinese community is hosting a celebratory dinner party in the Great Hall at Australian Parliament House. Photo: File.
Gala Dinner at Parliament House
When: Monday, 10 February from 6 pm to 10 pm
Where: The Great Hall at Parliament House, Parliament Drive, Canberra
Cost: $188 per person.
Step into the Great Hall at Parliament House for the Chinese New Year Gala. Organised by the Federation of Chinese Associations of ACT (FCAACT) and the Canberra Red Wine Association, this evening will feature vibrant cultural performances from Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and China. Guests will also enjoy live demonstrations of traditional Chinese art forms such as calligraphy, painting, and paper-cutting.
To make the evening even more special, award-winning executive chef David Learmonth will craft a gourmet dinner, blending culinary expertise with the finest ingredients.
For bookings and more details, phone 0402 399 637 or email info@fcaact.org.au.
Welcome the Year of the Snake with the Hong Kong String Orchestra. Photo: Canberra Theatre Centre.
Concert at Canberra Theatre Centre
When: Wednesday, 5 February from 7:30 pm
Where: The Playhouse, Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra
Cost: $48.20 to $108.
Music lovers can celebrate the Lunar New Year with an evening of familiar tunes at the Canberra Theatre Centre. Making its Australian debut, the internationally acclaimed Hong Kong String Orchestra will deliver a captivating performance blending Eastern and Western classical traditions.
Expect a unique program featuring Vivaldi’s classics alongside traditional Lunar New Year pieces. The orchestra will also perform iconic Hong Kong pop tunes, including music from the hit TV drama Blossoms Shanghai (繁花), capturing the charm and energy of the region’s vibrant pop culture. Tickets are selling fast, so book today.
Savour the Chef’s Special menu this Chinese New Year with your family and soak up the festive atmosphere. Photo: Natural Nine.
Chef’s Special at Natural Nine
When: Tuesday, 28 January to Sunday, 16 February
Where: 21 Binara Street, Canberra
Cost: Prices vary.
Take your tastebuds on a journey at Natural Nine during the Chinese New Year period. From 28 January to 16 February, the restaurant’s Chef’s Special menu combines traditional Chinese New Year favourites with creative, modern twists. Bring your family for an experience filled with joy, abundance, and delightful food. It’s the perfect way to share the festive spirit while enjoying exceptional flavours. Check out the Chef’s Special menu here.
Do you have any other ideas for celebrating the Lunar New Year in Canberra? Let us know in the comments!
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