Written by Becky Lima-Matthews
Chinese New Year 2025 in London
Celebrate the Year of the Snake in London at the largest celebrations outside Asia. Chinese New Year (also known as Lunar New Year) always falls between late January and mid-February; this year it’s on Wednesday 29th January. The London celebrations are usually held on the closest weekend to the date itself, and organised by the London Chinatown Chinese Association (LCCA). This New Year the celebrations will take place over the weekend of 1st-2nd February 2025.
Where to celebrate Chinese New Year 2025
Central London festivities usually take place across the West End, from Shaftesbury Avenue down to Trafalgar Square. It is free to attend and there are no tickets required, but you might want to get there early; thousands of people cram into the Soho/Chinatown streets and it gets very busy. It is considered lucky to wear red, and to buy something red for your house, so check out the Chinatown shops which will be full of cool and affordable Lunar New Year decorations and souvenirs.
If you don’t fancy the crush, there are more modest versions happening around town such as the celebrations at Greenwich Peninsula.
What’s on at Chinese New Year in London 2025
This year the celebrations are split across two days, starting with the spectacular lion dance performances on the 1st February between 11am and 5pm. Head to Chinatown where you’ll find performers in lion costumes dancing through the crowds to crashing cymbals and drums, imitating a lion’s movements; a lion symbolises wisdom and power, and the dance is said to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits.
Then, 2nd February sees the colourful Chinese New Year Parade between 10am and 11.45pm. More than 30 groups participate in the parade, which winds through the streets of the West End and Chinatown. The route starts at the east corner of Trafalgar Square by Charing Cross station, makes its way along Charing Cross Road then heads up Shaftesbury Avenue and into Chinatown to finish at Wardour Street.
As well as the parade there is entertainment in Trafalgar Square from midday, kicking off with speeches, firecrackers and the Lion’s Eye-Dotting Ceremony.
The main stage and performances
The main stage line-up includes traditional Chinese dance, music and martial arts performers, as well as contemporary acts. Head to the food zone for trucks serving up tasty Chinese snacks and street food. If you’d rather sit down in the warm for a bit, here’s where to eat in Chinatown – although you may need to book ahead for some restaurants. Follow #CNYLondon on social media for online celebrations and for updates on the day.
Getting to Chinese New Year in London 2025
As with any major event, plan ahead and leave plenty of time. TFL is your best bet for up-to-date travel information on the day. The good news is, all the main areas are within a short distance of Underground and Railway stations. Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines), Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines), and Tottenham Court Road (Northern and Central lines) are all a short walk to all the main zones.
