The date of Chinese New Year varies since it is based on the lunar and solar calendars, this year Chinese New Year falls on the 23rd of January. Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. In 2012 we will be waving goodbye to the year of the rabbit and welcoming in the year of the Dragon.

The festival falls on the first day of the first Chinese month, which is normally between late January and early February, and ends with Lantern Festival which is on the 15th day. Although the Chinese celebrations go on for around 15 days, most of the big events in the UK are taking place the weekend after Chinese New Year, the 28th-29th of January.

The festival is celebrated in a grand fashion in China, which dragon dancing, traditional performances and fireworks. Families will clean their house, as it is believed to drive away ill fortune and bring good luck in the New Year. After the celebrations, is the time when Chinese people will visit their family and relatives to wish them a happy New Year and children are often given money to bring them good luck.

The Chinatowns of the UK are vibrant communities bursting with colour and energy, and will throw impressive parties to celebrate the New Year which attract people from all different backgrounds and cultures. Visiting Chinatown at Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to celebrate the Chinese festival and get a taste of Chinese culture. We’ve had a look at some of the best festivals happening in the UK this year!

Manchester

With over 65,000 people attending last year’s celebrations, Manchester hosts one of the biggest Chinese festivals in the North. This year’s party is set to be even bigger! The activities will kick off on the 27th with a variety show by the Chinese Art Troupe at Manchester Central Auditorium. There are lots of other exciting events to stick around for so we recommend checking out hotels in Manchester so that you can prolong your stay. On the 29th head to Chinatown and Albert Square where you will be able to enjoy stalls and performances between 12am-7pm, concluding in a fireworks display at 6pm. Make sure you don’t miss the high pole lion dance performance which is said to be the most remarkable in the UK so far!

London

The London Chinatown Chinese Association celebrations take place in Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square and Chinatown. London’s main celebrations will be held on the 29th January. This year’s festivities include a parade in Chinatown full of colourful floats from Trafalgar Square to Rupert Street. There is also a grand display by 100 performers in Trafalgar Square, including the Chen Brothers who hold the Guinness World Record for the highest pole jump in flying lion dance. There will be food available all day and the activities end with an exciting fireworks display.

Liverpool

The Chinatown in Liverpool in the Merseyside area is on Duke Street and is home to the oldest Chinese community in Europe. It also features a grand arch located at the gateway, which is the largest of its kind outside of China! There is a tremendous variety of events to get involved in, mainly occurring the weekend before Chinese New Year (21st-22nd January). There is the Traditional Lion, Dragon and Unicorn Parade, the Firecracker Display, and the Taste of China Sunday Street Market. If you fancy something a bit different check out the Tai Chi demonstration or the Funfair!

For more Chinese New Year videos check out our Chinese New Year in the UK playlist.