Sheffield will play host to its largest Lunar New Year celebration ever with a 5-day festival from Feb 9th – Tues 13th Feb
Sheffield is set to embrace the spirit of the Lunar New Year with a grand 5-day festival, starting from February 9th. This year’s celebration, welcoming the Year of the Dragon, promises an extraordinary array of events, including the spectacular illumination of a 5-metre dragon at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, a diverse food festival at the Peace Gardens, an evening of cultural performances at the University of Sheffield’s Octagon Centre, and a special dinner at China Red. The festival is spearheaded by Jerry Cheung, MD at New Era Development Ltd, and assisted by Kelvin Quick of China Red, among others. The Sheffield Chinese Lunar New Year Festival is a testament to the city’s cultural richness and commitment to community while supporting the vital work of The Children’s Hospital Charity.
Over the weekend (10th – 11th Feb), the Peace Gardens will transform into a cultural hub, hosting over 35 stalls showcasing exquisite cuisine, art, and more. This free aspect of the event is a great opportunity to bring the family into town. Saturday will feature traders, stalls and a bar with a huge dragon as the centrepiece whilst Sunday will include a dragon parade, performances and speeches.
Saturday night at the Octagon Centre will see a huge celebration of traditional dragon dancing, singing, and various performances, followed by a special dinner at China Red for festival sponsors and key partners. This event is ticketed with prices starting at £15.
The Children’s Hospital Charity is set to celebrate the event by illuminating Sheffield Children’s Hospital with a stunning 5-metre dragon to usher in the Year of the Dragon on the hospital’s Outpatients Department, overlooking Clarkson Street. Generously sponsored by local businesses, community groups, and individuals, the dragon symbolises the collective effort and spirit of the Sheffield community. Last year’s event raised over £13,000 through sponsorships, with opportunities still open to sponsor the dragon in 2024.
Reflecting on the event, Jerry Cheung said, “This event is about culture sharing and bringing communities together. It’s also a chance to support a noble cause – raising funds for Sheffield Children’s.”
Diane Jarvis of Sheffield BID, supporting the event, expressed excitement about the new outdoor elements, including a Dragon Parade on Sunday, 11 February. “This extension to the city centre is a fantastic addition to Sheffield’s major events calendar,” she said.
Councillor Martin Smith highlighted the festival’s significance in celebrating Chinese culture and its symbolism of good fortune, strength, and success. Martin McKervey, Chair of the Sheffield Property Association, also echoed these sentiments, recognizing the festival’s role in showcasing Sheffield’s cultural vibrancy and strategic development.
To sponsor the dragon visit tchc.org.uk/get-involved/lunar-new-year or to learn more about the festival including ticket details visit – sheffieldchinesenewyear.com