Lunar New Year at Darling Harbour

Overview

For all Sydneysiders looking for good fortune, prosperity and a bit of fun, Darling Harbour's Lunar New Year celebrations are the place to be. With a huge lineup of fun activities, there's something for everyone at this cross-cultural celebration of the Lunar New Year — experience dragon boat races, lion dance performances or simply explore the tranquil Chinese Garden of Friendship.

Lunar New Year Jet Pack Shows

Coming to Cockle Bay on Saturday, February 1 and Saturday, February 8, the Lunar New Year Jet Pack Shows will see amazing lion dances, which will also light up the streets throughout the festival, and epic jet-propelled stunts. There will also be special Lunar New Year fireworks after the Jet Pack Shows.

Chinese Garden of Friendship

Everyone's favourite Darling Harbour oasis, the Chinese Garden of Friendship will host loads of events and activities, including serene tea ceremonies, red envelope giving and snake craft for the kids, paper art installations by Benja Harney and zodiac readings, just to name a few. There will also be a Twilight Garden Party on Friday, January 31 and Friday, February 7 with live performances by contemporary jazz band, Zodiac and delicious eats from One Dining. Entry to the Garden is $12 for adults and $8 for children. Concession rates are also available. 

Dragon Boat Races

One of the most anticipated events of the Darling Harbour Lunar New Year, the Dragon Boat Races will take over Cockle Bay between Friday, February 7 and Sunday, February 9, where over 3,000 paddlers will battle it out. Expect ornately decorated 12-metre-long dragon-themed boats and plenty of cheer-worthy action.

The Artistry Festival

Tumbalong Park will transform into a global village with The Artistry Festival from Friday, February 7 to Sunday, February 9. Indulge in Asian arts, food and culture, pop-up workshops including street art and a game of mahjong and performances by artists like Justice Crew and DJ Blink. If you head down to Pier St Underpass on the weekends during the festival, you will also find community dance, art and athletic groups from Chinese folk to martial arts demonstrations. 

Lunar Feasts

Luckily, to fuel all the fun, Darling Harbour has over 150 dining spots to suit every taste and budget. Enjoy dumplings from Harajuku Gyoza Beer Stadium, noodles from Kao Kao and seafood from Vogue Cafe, among plenty more. Shortstop Coffee & Donuts will also be serving up Lunar New Year special treats including a Mango & Black Sesame Donut, filled with mango jam and dipped in a fresh mango glaze. We're already salivating. 

Find out more by visiting the Darling Harbour website to see the full program.

Images: Supplied.