Lunar New Year

(Chinese New Year)

Often known in the West as Chinese New Year, the Lunar New Year occurs on the New Moon of the first lunar month each year. Each year is symbolised by one of the 12 zodiac animals. The zodiacs and their orders are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

Lunar New Year is the most important holiday of the year for China and some of the East and Southeast Asian countries. Traditionally the New Year is celebrated with family and the community through activities including deep-clean, decorating houses with traditional papercuts, feasting, and setting off firecrackers to bring in the New Year with a bang!

Lunar New Year Celebration at the MEAA

Time to celebrate the Year of the Snake (2025)!

We created a series of digital resources and online activities for you to enjoy Lunar New Year in the comfort of your own environment, either cook up a storm with some authentic Chinese New Year recipes or enjoying some Asian infused tunes – we have got your celebration covered!

Lunar New Year Playlist

To continue the festivities, we have curated a Lunar New Year playlist for you to play at home. Enjoy listening to the traditional and contemporary sounds of East and South East Asia where Lunar New Year is traditionally celebrated.

Lunar New Year Events

Join us in celebrating the Year of the Snake by coming along to our special events and exhibition! Explore our What’s On pages to find out more!