Lunar New Year falls on Sunday, February 10 this year, kicking off the Year of the Dragon. From an enchanting light show to an elegant ball, there are plenty of incredible ways to celebrate it in Toronto.
Here are 8 things to do to celebrate Lunar New Year in Toronto:
1. Lunar New Year Festival
Toronto’s Chinatown will be hosting a huge Lunar New Year Festival to ring in the Year of the Dragon. Head to Dragon City Mall for tons of activities and events, including a Mahjong King competition, lion dance performances, cash prizes up to $500, and even a laneway naming contest.
When: February 10 – 11, 2024
Where: Dragon City Mall
2. Dragon Ball
Dress up in your finest glam for a good cause at this year’s Dragon Ball Gala, taking place at the Metro Convention Centre on February 10. The annual benefit for the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation will include mesmerizing cultural performances, a delicious meal and more!
When: February 10, 2024
Where: Metro Convention Centre
3. Lunar New Year Market
Support local Asian-owned businesses with The Welcome Market’s Lunar New Year Market, featuring 35+ of vendors selling everything from handmade candles to vintage finds. Snack on treats from onside vendors, vibe to music from a live DJ, and catch a drag show put on by the Queens of Dim Sum.
When: February 2 – 4, 2024
Where: 983 Queen St W, Toronto
4. Love and Peace Lantern Festival
This expansive outdoor light show at Woodside Square Mall features four thematic elements, showcasing the work of over 50 artisans who have prepared for half a year. With lanterns originating from Zigong, Sichuan, China, you’ll be enchanted by the intricate Chinese craftmanship using ancient techniques.
When: December 2, 2023 – February 19, 2024
Where: Woodside Square South Parking Lot, 1571 Sandhurst Cir, Toronto,
5. Lion Dance Performance
Stop by the iconic Bata Shoe Museum on February 4 for a special performance by Lion Dance Toronto in honour of the Lunar New Year. Learn about the history of shoes before witnessing the colourful shows, which will take place at 1 and 1:30 p.m.
When: February 4, 2024
Where: Bata Shoe Museum
6. Lunar Lanterns
Traditionally, lanterns are a big component of Asian festivals, and LunarFest at the Varley Art Gallery of Markham will be showcasing the beautiful works of several Indigenous artists. Lunar Lanterns will light up the nights from February 2 – 29.
When: February 2 – 29, 2024
Where: Varley Art Gallery of Markham, 216 Main Street Unionville, Markham
7. Enchanted Lights
This beautiful light installation takes over Mel Lastman Square from February 10 – March 10, featuring a celebration of culture via a winter-themed light show. On February 24, witness a giant dragon and variety of cultural performances put on by the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto.
When: February 10 – March 10, 2024
Where: Mel Lastman Square, Toronto
8. Toronto Symphony Orchestra Lunar New Year Celebration
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra will be putting on a special concert for Lunar New Year on February 13 at Roy Thomson Hall, playing both festive favourites and beloved classics such as Butterfly Lovers Concerto and Song of the Pipa.
When: February 13, 2024
Where: Roy Thomson Hall