Lunar New Year 2025 in Ottawa

A colorful festival to brighten up the winter gloom

Dates: January 29, 2025

Ottawa's Chinatown is a great place to celebrate The Lunar New Year as the city has a particular way to mark the holiday and a Chinese community consisting of about 30,000 members. Up to a thousand people attend the Lunar New Year celebration which includes the parade and the Kings of Good Fortune procession accompanied by drummers.

CNY Parade at Ottawa Chinatown (January 29, 2025)

Chinatown New Year Parade is one of the most famous Chinese New Year's events. It features vibrantly dressed participants, traditional music, and dancing. During the procession, Kings of Good Fortune go through the streets, restaurants, and stores of Chinatown to give away lucky red envelopes with best wishes for the New Year. The people who give away envelopes are usually dressed up as the zodiac animals from the Chinese Zodiac Calendar or wear traditional Chinese costumes known as cheng sam.

The highlight of the celebration is the dragon dance, where a group of performers skillfully maneuver a vibrant dragon structure, weaving it through the streets and creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. Some paradegoers follow the route with waist drums, announcing their arrival, while dynamic Yangko dancers keep the festive spirits up by performing in the bustling district of Chinatown. Additionally, you might enjoy the Chinatown markets, which features dozens of vendors offering seasonal treats and Lunar New Year charms and souvenirs.

Schedule & Route

The event usually takes place on Lunar New Year's Day, from 10 am until 12 pm. The parade kicks off in western Chinatown near Preston Street and winds its way toward the Royal Gateway, culminating at Bay Street. Along the way, spectators cheer on the participants and enjoy lively performances.

Other Celebrations Across Ottawa

Apart from Chinatown, there are celebrations in other parts of the city. A cultural show is held at the McNabb Community Centre on Percy Street. The Lunar New Year Celebration includes traditional acts by the Valiant Dancing Club, Tai Chi Fan & Sword, and a Peking opera group. Additionally, numerous restaurants throughout Chinatown and other neighborhoods of Ottawa offer special deals and meals during the Lunar New Year celebration.