Don't Miss Out on Sunderland's Spectacular Chinese New Year Celebration!
This weekend, Sunderland is poised to host an array of vibrant activities to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The festivities follow successful events in Newcastle and Durham, making it a thrilling continuation of the Lunar New Year celebrations, which runs until March 3rd.
A Cultural Extravaganza Awaits
The highlight of Sunderland's celebration, taking place on March 1, includes traditional lion and dragon dances, along with an exciting KPop Demon Hunters tribute. This tribute is tied to the Netflix phenomenon, ensuring it will attract families and fans alike. From 11am to 3pm, attendees can expect an engaging program featuring live performances, stilt walkers, and a captivating dragon dance.
Local Delights and Interactive Fun
The event will also provide an opportunity to explore a variety of Asian cultural offerings. Sunniside Gardens will be transformed into a hub of activity featuring classical and modern dance performances, live demonstrations of traditional Chinese instruments, and an exhibition of exquisite costumes. Not to be missed is a fashion show showcasing the elegance of Asian attire. Visitors can indulge in an array of delectable Asian cuisine, shop for unique arts and crafts, and participate in free craft sessions that include origami, calligraphy, mask-making, and dragon puppet-making.
A Sense of Community and Inclusion
Roberta Redecke, head of business services at Sunderland’s BIDs, emphasized the event's continuous growth, stating, "The event just keeps getting bigger and better." The celebrations are a true reflection of Sunderland's welcoming spirit, showcasing the city's commitment to promoting cultural exchange and inclusion. Ian Wong, owner of Asiana restaurant and a consultant for the event, remarked on the joy of seeing diverse communities come together during this meaningful celebration.
As the seventh year of Lunar New Year events in Sunderland approaches, it is clear that this beloved tradition is set to foster community spirit, celebrate diversity, and create lasting memories for all who attend. With government support through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for participants of all ages.