Chinese New Year in Edmonton 2025

Edmonton's Chinese community celebrates Lunar New Year with vibrant festivities that capture the spirit of the season. Highlights include traditional dragon and lion dances, mesmerizing martial arts performances, live cultural showcases, and a delightful array of authentic Chinese cuisine. These celebrations, typically held between late January and early February, transform the city into a hub of color and excitement, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience the rich traditions and lively atmosphere of the Lunar New Year.

Chinatown Edmonton Events & Celebrations

For an unforgettable Chinese New Year celebration in Edmonton, Chinatown in the McCauley neighborhood is the place to be. This vibrant district comes alive with a colorful street parade that attracts large crowds of spectators. The event is filled with rhythmic drum music, dazzling lion dances, and the explosive sounds of firecrackers. Adding to the festive atmosphere are ceremonial speeches delivered by local dignitaries, marking the cultural and communal significance of the occasion.

West Edmonton Mall Lunar New Year Extravaganza (January 25–26, 2025)

The Edmonton Chinatown Multicultural Centre will host the Lunar New Year Extravaganza 2025 at West Edmonton Mall, one of North America’s largest shopping centers. This vibrant event features live entertainment designed to celebrate and share Lunar New Year traditions. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, greetings, and presentations about customs and fun facts related to the holiday. The event runs from 10 am to 9 pm on Saturday and from 10 am to 6 pm on Sunday at the Ice Palace inside the mall.

Togather Chinatown Arts Festival (February 1–2, 2025)

The Togather Chinatown Arts Festival is a multicultural event celebrating art, food, and community, held annually during Lunar New Year at the Edmonton Chinatown Multi-Cultural Centre. This family-friendly festival features a community market showcasing local artists, organizations, and micro-businesses. For the 2025 edition, the festival will expand to include a Chinatown Food Court, additional live performances, and workshop sessions hosted on the second floor of the venue, which is accessible by elevator. The event is free and conveniently located just one block from the Quarters LRT Station.

Chinese New Year Banquets (January 18 & February 1, 2025)

Celebrate Chinese New Year in Edmonton with two festive banquets offering delicious cuisine and vibrant traditions. The annual Chinese New Year Banquet at Dynasty Century Palace takes place on January 18, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 11 pm, with tickets priced at $50 per person. On February 1, 2025, Emperor’s Palace Chinese Cuisine hosts its Lunar New Year Banquet from 6 pm to 10:30 pm. Tickets range from $60 to $68.

Restaurants & hotels

Lastly, a number of restaurants and hotels throughout the city throw special cultural events and countdowns to mark the occasion. A Lion Dance at Century Casino is just one of the dozens of such events.