Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Toronto at these FREE events

It’s almost time to celebrate the Lunar New Year, but don’t worry if you’ve no plans as of yet — we’ve got you covered.

This year, Cadillac Fairview is inviting you to welcome the Year of the Pig with two can’t-miss events happening on Saturday, February 9 at CF Fairview Mall and CF Markville.

The Lunar New Year falls on February 5 and you can round up your favourite people to celebrate the following weekend. Marvel at beautiful, large-scale lantern displays suspended from the ceilings, and take in exciting cultural experiences including live painting.

CF Fairview Mall decorations/Cadillac Fairview

At CF Fairview Mall and CF Markville, you’ll get to see a traditional Lion Dance and meet the God of Fortune who will be gifting lucky red pockets filled with chocolate coins. Fun fact: The colour red symbolizes good luck and good fortune to all for the Lunar New Year.

Sharon Mccutcheon/Unsplash

After you take Insta-perfect photos of the captivating displays at CF Markville, make the most of your visit by catching free live music performances and face changing — a tradition that dates back over 300 years to China’s southwestern province of Sichuan.

To further mark the Lunar New Year, Cadillac Fairview is hosting new, ornately decorated lounges from February 4 to 21. You can relax in the lounges, capture the stunning visuals surrounding you, and share them on social media.

Lunar New Year treats for shoppers

All shoppers who purchase a CF SHOP! card at Guest Services using Alipay or another payment method will receive a tag where they can write a New Year’s wish and hang it on the Wishing Tree within the lounge.

Transactions made using Alipay at any CF shopping centre between February 4 and 21 will receive the Exclusive FX rate — the same rate enjoyed by Alipay Platinum members. In addition, those who spend 800RMB using Alipay will only be charged 740RMB, giving you a special 8% discount.

These unmissable Lunar New Year events will be taking place out East, but Canadians living on the Western side of Canada (specifically, in Vancouver) can enjoy events at the CF Pacific Centre on February 8 and CF Richmond Centre on February 10.

Lunar New Year events at CF Markville

When: Saturday, February 9
Time: 12:30 pm
Where: CF Markville, Centre Court – 5000 Highway 7, Markham
Price: FREE

Lunar New Year events at CF Fairview Mall

When: Saturday, February 9
Time: 2 pm
Where: CF Fairview Mall, Lower Level Court – 1800 Sheppard Avenue East, North York
Price: FREE