On Sunday, January 26, the Chinese New Year festivities will see traditional Chinese culture blended with modern performances to create must-see street, stage and music acts
Liverpool will be bringing in the Year of the Rat in style with celebrations set to take place in the heart of Europe’s oldest Chinatown.
On Sunday, January 26, the Chinese New Year festivities will see traditional Chinese culture blended with modern performances to create must-see street, stage and music acts, aerial demonstrations, family workshops, a fairground along with the popular dragon, unicorn and lion parades and firecracker displays.
The market will also make a return to George Street selling gifts, souvenirs and mouth-watering food. As a result of the financial challenges facing the city council, this year’s free celebrations will all take place on the one day – starting at 11am and finishing around 5pm.
Building up to the main day of activity, over the next few days thousands of Chinese lanterns will adorn the city centre streets, and from Friday (10 January) a number of buildings will be illuminated in red in honour of the new year – signifying good fortune and joy to everyone.
Buildings included are the Cunard Building, Liverpool Town Hall, St George’s Hall, Central Library Picton Colonnades, Toxteth Library, World Museum, Open Eye Gallery, Everyman & Playhouse Theatres and Mersey Tunnels George’s Dock Building.
The event has been organised by Liverpool City Council in partnership with the Liverpool Chinese New Year Co-ordinating committee. Secretary of Liverpool Chinese Business Association, Ming Wong, said: “On Sunday 26 January, we will celebrate the start of the Year of the Rat in great style as usual.
“There will be a vibrant busy atmosphere, food stalls, cultural events, family workshops, street entertainment and a fun fair. And of course, Dragon and Lion street parades, a spectacular firecracker display and look out for the lucky man who will be handing out red envelopes containing a surprise.
“Come along and bring your friends and family to join the all day celebration – we look forward to seeing you on the day.”