Chinese New Year in Manchester 2025

Manchester's Chinatown, the second-largest in the UK, has become the heart of the city's vibrant Lunar New Year celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors every year. The holiday weekend is filled with entertainment, activities, and one of the UK's most dazzling celebrations. As the streets light up with colorful decorations, the city welcomes the arrival of the Year of the Dragon​

Chinese New Year Festival

Chinese New Year in Manchester is a long-established and internationally recognized celebration, making it one of the largest events of its kind in the UK. The festival spans various parts of the city, including Chinatown, cultural venues, and popular shopping and leisure districts. As the city lights up for the occasion, the Year of the Dragon is welcomed with a range of exciting events. Key highlights include the iconic red lanterns that adorn the streets, live performances, food stalls, a funfair, and the highly anticipated return of the legendary Dragon Parade​.

Lunar New Year Events & Celebrations

Manchester’s Chinese New Year celebrations feature thousands of red lanterns throughout the city, including extended locations around Chinatown. The area hosts martial arts demonstrations, traditional dances, acrobatic performances, and live music. Special events will also take place at the Art Gallery and Central Library. Local restaurants on Nicholas Street, George Street, and Faulkner Street will offer holiday specials, while food stalls, a funfair, and live performances add to the festive atmosphere.

During Manchester's Chinese New Year celebrations, Piccadilly Gardens becomes a lively hub filled with vibrant colors, music, and delicious food. St Anne's Square, reminiscent of Little China, hosts a street market illuminated by lanterns, where visitors can browse Chinese holiday delicacies and crafts. For those looking to relax, Tiger Bar offers a great spot to enjoy a beer while soaking in the festive atmosphere that fills the city.

Dragon Parade (January 2025)

The Dragon Parade is the central event of Chinese New Year celebrations in Manchester. This parade features a 175-foot dragon accompanied by drummers and musicians. It begins at noon at St Peter's Square near Central Library. The parade will pass through Oxford Street, Portland Street, and Princess Street before ending at Faulkner Street and Chinatown Car Park. The streets will be decorated with red lanterns and gold accents, creating a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy

In addition to the parade, there will be cultural performances along the route. From 12 pm to 12:30 pm, Oxford Street will feature various performances. The parade itself starts at 12:30 pm, moving through the city and arriving in Chinatown around 1 pm, where performances continue until 1:40 pm. These celebrations offer an excellent opportunity to experience traditional Chinese culture, with food stalls and entertainment complementing the event. The parade is free and open to all.