About Chinese New Year 2024 in London
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon in London at the largest celebrations outside Asia. Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year) falls between late January and mid-February; this year it’s on Saturday 10th February. The London celebrations are usually held on the closest weekend to the date itself, organised by the London Chinatown Chinese Association (LCCA). This New Year the celebrations will take place on Sunday 11th February 2024.
Where to celebrate Chinese New Year 2024
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 affordable Lunar New Year decorations and souvenirs.
What’s on at Chinese New Year in London 2024
Full details of the celebrations are yet to be announced, but in past years the main event has been the colourful Chinese New Year Parade. More than 30 groups usually participate in the parade, which wends its way through the streets of the West End and Chinatown. The route normally starts at Charing Cross at 10am. Led by a dragon and lion dance, the parade heads up Shaftesbury Avenue and into Chinatown.
As well as the parade there is usually entertainment in Trafalgar Square from midday. Things usually kick off with a thanksgiving ceremony, firecrackers and the Lion’s Eye-Dotting Ceremony.
The main stage and performances
The main stage line-up includes traditional Chinese dance and music performers, as well as contemporary acts. Head to the food zone for trucks serving up tasty Chinese 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.
The event is divided into zones to help you plan your visit. If you’re taking kids head to the Leicester Square family zone. Festivities also include Family festival day at The National Gallery for storytelling, crafts, dumpling-making, performances,and games.
Visit the Shaftesbury Avenue martial arts and culture zone for some martial arts performance action, and watch new British-Chinese music acts in the Charing Cross Road community zone. Meanwhile, follow #CNYLondon on social media for online celebrations and for updates on the day.
Getting to Chinese New Year in London 2024
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.–>
