Chinese New Year is the most significant festival within the Chinese community, and is widely celebrated throughout London. With last year’s 2011 festivities attracting over 300,000 people to the capital, this year promises to be even more extravagant. The hub of activity can be found in Chinatown, Trafalgar Square and Shaftsbury Avenue, all conveniently accessible from many of our
London apartment rentals.
Often referred to as ‘Lunar New Year’, Chinese New Year varies in date, in accordance with the lunar and solar calendars. The cycle is made up of 12 years, and customary to Chinese traditions, each year celebrates a particular animal. 2012 will represent the year of the Dragon. Officially, Chinese New Year will fall on January 23rd; followed by 14 days of celebrations within the Chinese culture. London celebrations are scheduled for January 29th, kicking off in Trafalgar Square at noon, for the opening ceremony.
Chinese New Year in London is an exciting event for all nationalities, cultures, and ages, with spectacular parades of colourful costumes, music, dance, and acrobatic performances. The Chinese people certainly know how to put on a show, which is said to signify the start of a prosperous New Year of great fortune, sweeping away the past year’s trials and tribulations. London’s Mayor, Boris Johnson, and the Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Liu Xiaoming will be in attendance, conducting celebratory speeches.
During the festivities, London’s Chinatown, and particularly Gerrard Street, will host an array of stalls selling traditional souvenirs and food. Located between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, a visit to Chinatown makes for an exciting evening out from your
London apartment rental. Parades through Chinatown and Shaftsbury Avenue commence at 10am, followed by the Trafalgar Square Ceremony at noon, running through to 6pm. All venues are within reasonable walking distance of each other, and have major tube stations nearby when travelling via the underground from your
London apartment rental.
