In Manchester, the Chinese New Year will be celebrated on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 February, with the Dragon Parade (with its 175-foot dragon), traditional lion dancing, thousands of red lanterns, martial arts, a funfair, food, and fireworks. Open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both the Saturday and Sunday, the Chinese Street Food Market will be in St Ann's Square, which is also home to the giant Golden Dragon.
On Sunday 18 February, the Dragon Parade starts at Albert Square, with martial arts and dance displays from 12 p.m. midday. The parade then departs from outside Town Hall at 1 p.m. and arrives in Chinatown at 1.30 p.m., where firecrackers will be set off. From 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., the Lion and Unicorn visit Chinatown's businesses while visitors enjoy the funfair, acrobatics, dancing, music, and stalls. Fireworks bring it to a close at 6 p.m.
The event is coordinated by Manchester City Council, the Federation of Chinese Associations of Manchester, and Manchester's city centre retailers (Manchester BID). Follow along on social media to keep up to date.