The Year of the Dog is coming, and it’s going to be celebrated all over London. On February 18, the city will be alive with color and excitement. Think dragons and lots of happy noise. Chinatown will look like a giant party, all set up for the start of Chinese New Year.
Thousands of people will get to experience Chinese traditions in person. If you want to join in, we’ve got some advice. We’ll tell you about the best festivals and where to go to ring in the Year of the Dog at the Chinese New Year.
Make a reservation at a Chinatown restaurant
Plan to eat at the top restaurants in Chinatown? Book ahead! It gets crowded there. By booking early, you dodge the bustle. It’s an easy way to enjoy Chinatown’s best spots without stress.
Look at the weather on Chinese New Year’s Day
You can maximize the pleasure from this occasion by checking the weather predictions, especially since much of the activities will transpire outside. Given the lengthy time frame spent at open-air areas, it is vital to be well-prepared for possible shifts in the climate. Continually monitoring the forecast will allow you to prepare yourself properly and make sure of a cozy and pleasurable time throughout the celebrations, no matter what nature has in store. The extended duration of outdoor festivities means taking changing conditions into account is wise to maintain enjoyment of planned events.
Get up early on Chinese New Year’s Day
Come early to get a good spot for seeing the celebrations. Reach the celebration place before 10 AM. Cambridge Circus is the best place to watch the parade. It has the best views of the celebrations. Come on time so you can get a good view. And you can enjoy being part of the lively celebration for Chinese New Year.
Move around Chinatown
To fully immerse yourself in the experience, be sure to avoid remaining stationary in one spot. Though the large stage in Trafalgar Square presents an appealing option, expanding your exploration by attending shows at other locations will enrich your enjoyment. Venture down Charing Cross Road to the Hong Kong Stage and uncover their intriguing performances. Or head over to Shaftesbury Ave nueue’s Family Stage to discover entertaining acts perfect for all ages. These different venues promise unique and engaging performances that provide additional layers to your Chinese New Year celebration. By embracing the lively atmosphere found across multiple areas, you can guarantee a well-rounded and memorable involvement in the festivities that will leave you with new perspectives.
Plan your trip and your route through Chinatown
Get ready for a fun ride by setting up your plans a day ahead. Scoring big on Festival day is all about planning a super clear course. Spend some time figuring out the route and pack more fun into your Chinese New Year festivities. A well-mapped out plan lets you sail smoothly through all the exciting events, getting the best out of all the celebrations!
Try the typical Chinese drink
After the parade, rekindle your spirits with baijiu, China’s spirited National Drink. Embrace the warmth of this fiery beverage to elevate your post-celebration experience. Baijiu, renowned for its bold flavor, is the perfect libation to savor, adding a touch of authenticity to your celebration of Chinese culture. Whether enjoyed for its cultural significance or its distinctive taste, indulging in baijiu offers a fitting conclusion to the festivities, creating lasting memories of the vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations in London.
To end the Chinese New Year…
Engage in China’s rich cultural heritage by participating in diverse cultural exchange workshops. Immerse yourself in the traditions by donning hanfu (汉服), the traditional clothing of China, and experience a genuine connection to the culture. Embrace the opportunity to partake in typical Chinese dances, adding a dynamic and participatory element to your celebration. These cultural activities not only provide a firsthand experience of Chinese traditions but also contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the Chinese New Year festivities in London, ensuring a memorable and culturally enriched celebration.
