Year of the Snake: How to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in London

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Have you ever felt the magic of celebrating a cultural event that lights up an entire city? That’s exactly what happens during the Chinese New Year in London! With 2025 marking the Year of the Snake, the city is ready to transform into a vibrant hub of parades, performances, and culinary delights. Here’s how you can dive into the festivities and make the most of this iconic celebration:

1. Experience the Grand Chinese New Year Parade

Let’s talk about one of the most exciting events of the season: the grand parade. On Sunday, 2nd February 2025, the West End becomes a canvas of color and culture. Starting at 10 am near Trafalgar Square, the parade snakes (pun intended!) through Charing Cross Road and Shaftesbury Avenue before reaching Chinatown by 11:45 am.

What’s in store? Think vibrant floats, dazzling lion and dragon dances, and the rhythmic beats of traditional Chinese drumming. It’s the perfect blend of energy, artistry, and tradition that you won’t want to miss.

2. Celebrate at the Greenwich Peninsula

For a more interactive experience, head to the Greenwich Peninsula on Saturday, 1st February 2025. This festival is a celebration of art, culture, and family fun.

Picture this: dragon and lion dances that captivate, workshops where you can try bamboo coaster weaving or Chinese knot-making, and even games like Mahjong. It’s the perfect spot for families and anyone looking to embrace the creative spirit of the Lunar New Year.

3. Indulge in a Lunar New Year Supper Club

Foodies, this one’s for you! On 29th January 2025, the "Two Hot Asians" Lunar New Year Supper Club at Mama Shelter in Hackney will offer a feast to remember.

The menu, crafted by co-founder Emily Yeoh, features special occasion dishes like dumplings (for wealth) and Hainanese-style roast chicken (for prosperity). This intimate dining experience is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the New Year with a contemporary twist.

4. Explore the British Museum’s Chinese Collection

Are you a history buff or an art lover? The British Museum has you covered. Room 33, home to a stunning collection of Chinese ceramics, showcases rare and valuable pieces that tell stories spanning centuries.

Strolling through this exhibit, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Chinese craftsmanship and traditions. Plus, it’s a serene way to balance out the high-energy celebrations.

5. Visit Chinatown for Festive Delights

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without a trip to Chinatown. The streets will be buzzing with lion dance performances, vibrant decorations, and, of course, incredible food.

Whether you’re sampling dim sum, sipping bubble tea, or indulging in authentic dishes at family-run restaurants, this is the place to soak in the festive spirit.