Chinese New Year is one of the world’s biggest celebrations. If you’re in the Greater Toronto Area, there are many festivities you can take part in just around the corner! Here are some of the GTA’s most exciting events to ring in the year of the yang.
1. CNY Celebrations 2015 at Market Village
Markham: Feb 20 1PM – Feb 22 7PM
All weekend you can take part in Toronto’s biggest Chinese New Year’s party. Traditional Chinese dance, opera, and orchestra are all on display. Anyone can get involved with contests and workshops including calligraphy and origami. The event of the season is open to all ages and promises to be a great time!
2. Toronto Chinatown Chinese New Year
Chinatown: Feb 21/22 Noon – 5PM
Chinatown certainly puts on a show when it comes to the New Year. With traditional dances and even some martial arts on display, the annual celebrations in Toronto’s Chinatown always bring in the crowds. There’s even going to be a Wheel of Fortune game this year! Anyone who’s up to it can head on down – admission is free and open to everyone. It’s even one of the Telegraph’s top 10 Chinatown’s to celebrate in around the world!
3. The 2015 Dragon Ball
Allstream Centre, Exhibition Place: Feb 21 5:45PM
With a name like that, this event has to deliver on the dragon front. Luckily a dragon dance is one of the premier parts of this benefit gala. Advertised as Canada’s largest Chinese New Year’s event – the Dragon Ball offers food, performances (including singer Jully Black), and more. Formal wear is recommended so break out your best clothes and get ready for a great four course meal!
4. Chinese New Year Carnival 2015
Sony Centre for the Performing Arts: March 2 7:30PM
Put on by the Canada-China Cultural Development Association, this one night only show might just be the most extravagant performance you can see this Lunar New Year. The carnival features acrobats, music, dancing, magicians, and some of the most beautiful costumes this side of Beijing. This event is fun for the whole family and is a must for anyone who wants to celebrate the New Year with a bang.
5. Lunar Chinese New Year Banquet
Taste of China Spadina Ave: Feb 20 6PM – 8PM
Put on by the renowned food historian and tour guide Shirley Lum, this banquet is sure to satisfy your hunger while introducing you to some traditional Chinese dishes. With multiple courses cooked by Chinese matriarchs, make sure you have room in your stomach when you go! Shirley Lum also puts on various walking food tours, including ones through Chinatown. So if you’re the adventurous type, that might be more your flavour!
6. Home
Anywhere, any day, any time
Just because you don’t go out anywhere doesn’t mean you can’t join in the festivities! Invite some friends and family, cook a meal, and celebrate the New Year the way you want to. We’ve even got some tips on how you can get into the holiday spirit. Remember, Chinese New Year is what you make it. So whether you’re getting in touch with your heritage or just want to explore this fascinating holiday – we hope you’ll have a great Chinese New Year. Gung Hay Fat Choy!
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