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As red lanterns glow and the sound of drums echoes through city streets, communities across Australia prepare to welcome Lunar New Year one of the most significant cultural celebrations in the world.
In 2026, Lunar New Year begins on 17 February, marking the start of the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. Unlike 1 January, which follows the Gregorian calendar, Lunar New Year is based on the cycles of the moon. The festival typically falls between late January and mid-February and runs for around 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.
A Festival of Renewal and Family
Lunar New Year has been celebrated for more than 3,000 years and is observed across many Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Mongolian and Tibetan communities.
Although customs vary, the themes are universal: renewal, family unity, prosperity and good fortune.
In Chinese tradition, families gather for a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve — often considered the most important meal of the year. Dishes such as dumplings, fish and longevity noodles are prepared for their symbolic meanings. Red decorations are hung to ward off bad luck, and red envelopes containing money are given to children as a blessing for the year ahead.
Vietnamese families celebrate Tết Nguyên Đán, while Korean families observe Seollal, each bringing their own customs, foods and rituals. Across cultures, homes are cleaned before the new year to sweep away bad fortune and welcome fresh beginnings.
Lunar New Year in the Hawkesbury
Here in the Hawkesbury, the festival may be quieter than in metropolitan centres, but it is nonetheless meaningful.
The region is home to residents of Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean and other Asian heritage who mark the occasion with family gatherings, special meals and visits to friends and community networks. Local schools often incorporate cultural learning activities, and restaurants decorate with red lanterns and festive displays.
In a growing multicultural community, Lunar New Year is an opportunity not only for celebration but for understanding. It offers a chance for neighbours to learn about traditions that have shaped families for generations.
Sydney’s Spectacular Celebrations
For those seeking large-scale festivities, Sydney hosts one of the largest Lunar New Year festivals outside Asia.
The Sydney Lunar Festival, coordinated by the City of Sydney, transforms the CBD and Haymarket precinct into a vibrant celebration of culture. Dixon Street in Chinatown comes alive with lion dances, drumming, markets and street performances. Giant lantern installations light up the city, and restaurants offer special banquet menus throughout the fortnight.
Darling Harbour becomes a focal point for high-energy performances and dragon boat races, where teams paddle in rhythm to pounding drums across Cockle Bay. The Sydney Opera House joins the festivities, often illuminating its sails in celebratory colours and hosting themed dining experiences.
Events extend beyond the CBD, with Chatswood and other centres hosting large community festivals that attract thousands of visitors.
For many Hawkesbury families, a trip into Sydney during Lunar New Year has become an annual tradition combining cultural pride with spectacle and celebration.
More Than a Date on the Calendar
At its heart, Lunar New Year is about connection to family, heritage and community.
In a region like the Hawkesbury, known for its strong community spirit, acknowledging Lunar New Year reflects the evolving diversity of our population. It reminds us that while traditions may differ, the values of renewal, hope and togetherness are shared.
As the Year of the Horse approaches symbolising energy, strength and perseverance communities across the Hawkesbury and Sydney alike will gather to welcome a new beginning.
And whether celebrated quietly around a family table or amid the drums and lanterns of Sydney’s Chinatown, Lunar New Year continues to bring colour, culture and connection to our region.
Key events are held at Darling Harbour until March 1 with Dragon Boat Races happening from 28 February to 1 March.
