Blog: Your guide to celebrating Lunar New Year in Birmingham
Written by Student Content Shaper Mahina Wong
Happy Lunar New Year to those who celebrate! The holiday celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar used in Chinese, East and Southeast Asian communities. Festivities usually begin the evening before and last for fifteen days.
In Chinese tradition, each year is represented by one of 12 zodiac animals: The rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, ram (or goat), monkey, rooster, dog and pig. This year marks the ‘Year of the Snake’, which in Chinese Zodiac, is a symbol of power, energy, and visionary leadership. Find out more about the significance of the snake according to Chinese Zodiac.
For those of us staying in Birmingham, there's no need to feel left out! The city is buzzing with exciting events and delicious food that will help you celebrate the festive season right here.
A Festival in the City
Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 February 2025
Hippodrome Square, Birmingham Centre
Produced by Birmingham Hippodrome and the Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee, the city centre will come alive with free vibrant festivities! You can expect:
- Traditional Chinese Dance performances
- Dragon dances
- Chinese drumming
- Fireworks display
- Craft markets and activities
Don’t forget campus events
Keep an eye on The Guild’s What’s On page and for cultural societies such as Hong Kong Public Affairs and Social Services Society for Lunar New Year events. These are great opportunities to celebrate with fellow students and immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
This packed programme promises to bring the energy and excitement of Lunar New Year to life.
Savour the Flavours of Chinatown
Craving food that feels like home? Birmingham’s Chinatown is the place to be! Whether you're longing for carrot cake or other authentic dishes, these restaurants have you covered:
- Asia Food Hall – A variety of Chinese and Asian delicacies.
- Ken Ho – Classic and flavourful dishes to satisfy your cravings.
- Happy Lamb Hot Pot – A cozy hot pot experience for you and your friends.
- Hong Kong Dining – Comfort food at its finest.
Closer to campus: Selly Oak’s hidden gems
If you’re not up for venturing far, Selly Oak also has plenty of great options:
- Suizen’s Noodle Bar – Perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
- Golden City Chinese Restaurant – Delicious, authentic dishes right in the heart of Selly Oak.
- Woodstock Cafe – Affordable and cozy with excellent menu options.
Cook your way to Lunar New Year fun
Eating out can be pricey, so why not turn cooking into a festive activity? Gather your friends and try making traditional Lunar New Year dishes together. Need ingredients? Head to these nearby East Asian supermarkets:
- Taste the Orient in Selly Oak
- Seoul Plaza
Here are some easy and fun dishes to make:
- Dumplings – symbolizing wealth and prosperity.
- Spring rolls – crispy delights that represent new beginnings.
- Longevity noodles – a must for a long and happy life.
- Sweet rice cake– a sticky, sweet treat for a prosperous year
No matter where you are or how you choose to celebrate, Lunar New Year in Birmingham has something for everyone. So gather your friends, explore the city, and ring in the Year of the Snake with joy and good fortune.
Wishing you a Happy Lunar New Year!
If you’d like to share your experience of Lunar New Year or other celebrations, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk.