Vancouver Chinese New Year 2016 events

The Year of the Monkey is right around the corner, and unsurprisingly for a city with more than 130 years of Chinese history, there are plenty of events in and around Vancouver to help you celebrate Chinese New Year in style.

Here’s our pick of 7 great festivities to enjoy beginning on the first weekend of February:

What: LIQUID Creations will be handing out free samples of their Lee Kum Kee sriracha flavours, as well as panda egg molds, to celebrate the coming Chinese New Year celebrations. This marks the first time Lee Kum Kee sriracha has come to Canada, so get yours now.
Where: Fresh St. Market – 1650 Marine Drive, West Vancouver / 15930 Fraser Highway, Surrey; Marketplace IGA – 909 Burrard Street, Vancouver / 489 Robson Street, Vancouver; Nesters Market – 990 Seymour Street, Vancouver
When: Saturday, February 6; 12 to 5 p.m.

What: A countdown celebration to ring in the Chinese New year. Starting at 8:30 p.m. enjoy free entertainment in a stage performance by Fairchild Radio, blessings from the Chinese God of Fortune, and a live countdown from Fairchild Television. Ring in the Lunar New Year right!
Where: Abderdeen Centre – 4151 Hazelbridge Way, Richmond
When: Sunday, February 7; 8:30 p.m. to 12:10 a.m.

What: One of Vancouver’s most popular tourist attracts has brought back Flight of the Dragon, from now until March 6. Catch the FlyOver Canada show back-to-back with Flight of the Dragon, which follows the travels of a mythical dragon as it soars over the Chinese countryside, through mountains and valleys, and over powerful waterfalls.
Where: FlyOver Canada – 201-999 Canada Place, Vancouver
When: Now until Sunday, March 6; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

What: Now in it’s seventh year, LunarFest is a celebration of Chinese culture, art, music, and craft. Get your fortune told using tradition Chinese methods, see performances from the Monkey King and friends, have some delicious foods, listen to live music, and adopt a LunarFest Monkey of your very own. There’s something for everyone, and plenty of events every day.
Where: Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza – 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
When: Friday, February 12 to Monday, February 15

What: A local favourite, the Spring Festival Cultural Fair features martial arts demonstrations, a grand Lion Dance Finale, music, and more. Usually held on one day, but due to demand will be held over two days.
Where: Dr. Sun Yat-sen Plaza – 50 East Pender Street, Vancouver
When: Saturday, February 13; 1 to 4 p.m. / Sunday, February 14; 2 to 4 p.m.

What: The Chinese New Year Celebration at the International Village ushers in the Year of the Monkey. Cultural exhibits, food, live performances, lion dances, vendors, and more shine a spotlight on one of the oldest cultures on Earth.
Where: International Village – 88 West Pender Street, Vancouver
When: Thursday, February 11 to Sunday, February 14

What: A one day festival at Vancouver’s scholars garden, the Year of the Monkey Temple Fair will feature martial arts demonstrations, arts and crafts, games, music, and history, for the whole family. The Dr. Sun Yat-sen Gardens are a Vancouver treasure, and a beautiful backdrop for the day’s festivities.
Where: Dr. Sun Yat-sen Classic Chinese Garden – 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver
When: Sunday, February 14; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

What: The annual Chinese New Year Parade, celebrating the start of the Chinese Calendar and the beginning of the Spring Festival. Featuring over 3,000 participants and organizations, 50,000 visitors, and the largest gathering of lion dance teams in Canada, the parade is a beloved tradition in Vancouver. Following the parade will be Lion Dances at various locations to bring luck and prosperity.
Where: Starts at the Millennium Gate in Chinatown – 161 East Pender Street, Vancouver
When: Sunday, February 14; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Chinese Benevolent Association of Vancouver