The Lunar New Year is upon us!
“As the Year of the Rooster comes to an end and the Year of the Dog begins, British Columbia has much to look forward to,” says BC Premier John Horgan.
“This year, B.C. will strengthen existing friendships and build trust in new partnerships. We will grow our economy by improving our relationships with our international trade partners, and supporting B.C. businesses. We will make life better for people, and provide opportunity and a better future for our children.”
“I wish all those celebrating the Lunar New Year – including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Singaporean and many other communities – a prosperous Year of the Dog.
“May the new year bring you and your family good luck, good health and prosperity.”
Here are 5 things to do in and around Victoria to celebrate the year of the dog:
Chinese New Year Celebrations
What: Kick off the Chinese New Year with cultural performances, Kung Fu demonstrations, and the Annual Lion Dance Parade in Chinatown. Make sure you get your spot early on Fisgard to see the celebrations!
Where: Chinatown
When: Sunday, February 18th
12 pm – 4 pm
Cost: free
Chinatown Walks
What: Chinatown Walks are 90-minute walking tours through Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Follow in the footsteps of gold miners, merchants, labourers and revolutionaries as you make your way along Chinatown’s main streets and then weave into Fan Tan Alley (the city’s most infamous thoroughfare). Discover the fascinating past and vibrant present of Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Visit Fan Tan Alley and the city’s only operating Chinese temple on this in-depth tour.
Where: Starbucks – Chinatown
1689 Government
When: Sunday, February 18th
10:30 am – 12 pm
Cost: $8 – $15
Tibetan New Year Celebration 2018
What: Please join the Tibetan Cultural Society of Vancouver Island in celebrating Tibetan New Year 2018, year of the Earth Dog. Festivities will include games, songs, traditional food & drink, circle dances, and more.
Where: Cadboro Bay United Church
2625 Arbutus Road
When: Saturday, February
17th 5 pm – 10 pm
Cost: Suggested $10 donation
Chinese New Year Fest 2018
What: This event invites guests to experience and explore Chinese culture and traditions through a diverse array of family-friendly activities, including a magic show, zodiac readings, and lantern riddles.
Where: Student Union Building
3800 Finnerty Rd
When: Saturday, February 17th
12 pm – 3 pm
Cost: Free!
Wonder Sunday: Animals of Culture
What: The year of the dog will start in February, and to celebrate the Chinese New Year, you’ll be able to explore the museum’s Chinatown, make paper lanterns and learn more about the animals of the Chinese Zodiac.
Where: Royal BC Museum
675 Belleville Street
When: Sunday, February 18th
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Cost: Included with admission
