Chatswood is putting on a month-long of celebrations in February to celebrate the Lunar New Year 2024.
Music, colours and world-class Asian food will overtake streets of Chatswood to welcome the Year of the Dragon as part of its highly anticipated 2024 Lunar New Year celebrations.
Willoughby City Council is bringing to life the Year of the Dragon Festival, encouraging visitors to discover the culinary delights, entertainment and art experiences from 1 to 25 February.
The Year of the Dragon Festival, named in honour of the 2024 Chinese zodiac sign, will feature a wide range of events, from a large-scale dragon sculpture, tasty treats, cultural experiences, lantern parades, music concerts, markets and more.
This year’s festival will be jam-packed with new attractions that will transport locals and visitors on a cultural journey of food, arts and entertainment with influences from China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea, the Philippines and other destinations.
The quintessential Lunar New Year Celebration Day will be held on 3 February at The Concourse, Chatswood Mall and down the main street of Victoria Avenue. Chatswood will burst into colour and movement with lion dancers, performers, musical experiences, food stalls, finishing with a Lantern Parade.
This year’s Festival Eats food spots will see the city’s restaurants – from hidden local haunts to revered foodie favourites – serve up traditional dishes, new favourites and delicious desserts feasted upon during Lunar New Year. Participating restaurants will have a Festival Eats red sticker on their windows to encourage people to try new delicacies.
Mayor Tanya Taylor says the Chatswood Year of the Dragon Festival is a wonderful fusion of cultural celebration and economic stimulus that is a testament to the value it brings to the region.
“The Festival attracts people to our city, providing exposure to our renowned food districts and positioning Chatswood as a significant local tourism destination with a leading food and entertainment hub within Sydney,” says Mayor Taylor. “Best of all, the festival embraces and celebrates our rich and diverse population.”
Don’t forget to explore the popular Golden Market, featuring more than 35 stalls selling a diverse range of delicious international foods, gifts and decorations, on Thursdays and Fridays.
For the full program of events, visit visitchatswood.com.au/LNY/Home
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
Soaring Dragon | 1–25 February
Suspended over the reflection pool, the illuminated dragon will create a moving light show.
Legends and Lanterns | 11 February
Internationally renowned cellist Li-Wei Qin and violinist Harmonnia Junus, supported by Odyssey Symphony Orchestra.
17 February | Concourse Concert Hall
Netflix sensation Jason Leong will host the comedy night.
Luminary Rising Exhibition | 1-25 February
Presented at Willoughby’s Art Space on The Concourse, this exhibition examines the significance of the moon and how it is reflected across cultures.
Symphony in the Park | Free outdoor concert | 23 February
One of Australia’s most talented conductors and composers, Guy Noble, will lead the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra in a performance of classical music from East to West.