Happy Lunar New Year!

Lunar New Year celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar used in Chinese, East and Southeast Asian communities, and will take place on Saturday 10 February this year. Festivities usually begin the evening before and last for fifteen days. This year marks the ‘Year of the Dragon’, a symbol of good luck, strength, and health. Find out more about the significance of the dragon.

How is Lunar New Year typically celebrated?  

Millions of families and friends get together to feast, enjoy fireworks, wear special clothes and hang red lanterns. It's also traditional to gift a bright red envelope (known as hóngbāo or lì shì) to friends and family containing money inside to represent luck for the new year ahead. More information.  

Did you know? 

There is a tradition not to pick up a broom in case you sweep the good luck out of the door! 

How we’re celebrating the Lunar New Year at UoB 

Lunar New Year Celebration 
Thursday 8 February, 19:00-20:00
Elgar Concert Hall, Bramall Music Building 

Join internationally renowned Chinese pianist Di Xiao for a concert fizzing with orchestral fireworks. Celebrating the mighty river that courses through China, the Yellow River concerto melds Western and Chinese musical influences. Di is joined by Jennie Zhan and Pinyan Lin for this celebratory event. Check out the free event.  

Celebrations in the city 

Lunar New Year with Birmingham Hippodrome and Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee
Sunday 11 February, 
Hurst Street, Southside, Birmingham, B5 4TB 

Celebrations will begin with the traditional waking of the Lion 'dim jing' as well as performances from Lions and Buddha Men with firecrackers, drummers, traditional fan dancers and more. You can also spend time at market stalls, enjoying street food, craft, funfairs, face painting and a chance to see Pom the ten-foot Panda. A spectacular fireworks finale will close the celebrations. Find out more.  

From everyone at UoB, Happy Lunar Year, xīnnián hǎo (“New Year happiness”) and “gong hei fat choy” (“wishing you prosperity”)!