Lunar New Year Celebrations in Birmingham, UK - Bring on the Dragon!

It’s an exciting time of year right now for anybody who celebrates the Lunar Calander, as we gear up to welcome the year of the Dragon. Saturday 10th February 2024 marks the first day of the new year.

All over the world communities are deep into preparations to welcome in the New Year. Lanterns will be hung and family and cultural traditions will be followed and enjoyed. New clothes will be bought, houses will be spotlessly cleaned and new haircuts will be had.

In lots of countries family members will make their way back to the family home for around a fortnight of celebrations; referred to as spring festival. Streets, shops and restaurants will be vibrant with colour and celebration.

Our very own Birmingham, UK will be bringing in the New Year with celebrations to be proud of. The Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee will, once again, bring the city to life with lion and dragon dances, traditional performances and entertainment spanning over two days throughout the city centre.

Lunar New Year is a fantastic time for great food! Some dishes are eaten to help to bring wealth or happiness, others to represent longevity or the togetherness of the family.

Some of these foods include spring rolls, noodles, whole fish, glutinous rice cake, sweet rice balls, fruit and of course dumplings! What better place to enjoy amazing dumplings than Chung Ying in the heart of Birmingham’s China Town. They are serving up a huge array of mouthwatering, delicious dumplings and are the current holders of the ‘Best Dumplings in the UK’, awarded at the Golden Chopsticks awards.

View the Chung Ying menu here

This new year marks the year of the Dragon in Chinese culture; the 5th sign of the zodiac.

Typical Dragon characteristics in the Chinese Zodiac include great optimism and positivity. They have a powerful, intelligent presence and make great leaders. They exude courage and bravery but can sometimes be a bit over confident. They are ambitious and have a lively enthusiasm for things they are passionate about. They are very excitable but can be very stubborn and show a temper when irritated!

Whether the Dragon is your sign or not, it’s still a great opportunity to get involved in a joyous celebration. Pop on some red clothes, make some decorations and enjoy some unbelievably scrumptious food!!

Happy New Year! Kung Hei Fat Choi!