Chinese New Year Festival and Market Day

Overview

One thing Auckland does well, especially in the summertime, is cultural festivals which celebrate the diversity and multicultural nature of the city.

Come late January once the hangover has retreated, tents have been packed up and you’ve gone back to work, why not prolong the New Year festivities and welcome in the Year of the Rabbit with the Chinese New Year Festival and Market Day?

Now in its 20^th year, the festival attracts crowds of up to 20,000 people, giving you the chance to experience a uniquely Chinese event on a large scale at the ASB Showgrounds.

The grand opening at 10am, hosted by John Key, kicks off the day with a traditional lion/dragon dance and is followed by an extensive entertainment programme. For instance, you’ll get to see demonstrations of martial arts, tai chi and traditional dance as well as hear Chinese pop bands. There will also be street entertainers, games and rides for children and an arts and crafts market.

And that’s without even mentioning the food. You’ll find all kinds of specialist stalls selling traditional & exotic Chinese delicacies as well as special New Year treats.

If you usually enjoy going to the Chinese Lantern Festival up in Albert Park, you should definitely check this event out too.