Illuminating the Lunar New Year Celebrations
The Lunar New Year celebrations on the North Shore are set to be grander than ever this February. The festivities will take place in Chatswood and St Leonards, welcoming the Year of the Horse in 2026. From February 12 to February 28, Chatswood’s city center will come alive with cultural traditions, vibrant performances, and community engagement.
Highlights of the Lunar New Year Celebrations
The events in Chatswood are a pinnacle of the area’s social calendar. Willoughby Mayor Tanya Taylor describes this celebration as a “celebration of culture, connection and community spirit.” This year, the festivities aim to showcase the rich cultural diversity of the community.
Economic Impact of the Celebrations
The Lunar New Year is not just a cultural event; it also significantly boosts the local economy. In 2025, the festivities for the Year of the Snake contributed nearly $80 million to the local economy. The Celebration Day alone attracted around 60,000 visitors, leading to a spending surge of nearly $4 million.
- Food services gained $1 million from Celebration Day activities.
- The event provides numerous opportunities for local small businesses.
- Markets and activations spotlight the uniqueness of Chatswood.
Lunar New Year Festivities in Chatswood
This year’s Celebration Days are scheduled for the weekend of February 21-22. The Twilight Lantern Parade will be a highlight, unfolding at 7 PM on Saturday. This vibrant procession will feature dancers, colorful costumes, and community groups, starting at Victoria Avenue and Hercules Street and ending at Charlotte Lane. Spectators are encouraged to find their spots early to enjoy the experience.
Family-Friendly Activities
Over the 16 days of celebration, families can enjoy various activities. Highlights include:
- Fortune stalls with lucky prizes
- A jumping castle for children
- Pony rides as a nod to the Year of the Horse
From 10 AM to 9 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 6 PM on Sunday, more than 130 market stalls will line the streets, offering food, gifts, crafts, and festive favorites curated by local artisans and businesses. The Concourse will present a full weekend of live entertainment, ranging from traditional performances to modern interpretations that celebrate the evolving cultural landscape of the community.
Lunar Laneways in St Leonards
Nearby in St Leonards, the Lane Cove Council, in partnership with the Korean Cultural Centre, will host the first Lunar Laneways street party on February 28. This event will take place from 4 PM to 9 PM, showcasing both traditional and contemporary aspects of Korean culture along Canberra Avenue and Marshall Lane. Plans are already underway for future events featuring Chinese and Vietnamese cultures in 2027 and 2028.
As the North Shore prepares for these Lunar New Year celebrations, the community eagerly anticipates a month filled with culture, joy, and shared experiences.
