With Liverpool being home to the oldest Chinese community in Europe and one of the largest in the UK, when there is something to celebrate it always attracts the crowds.
The Chinese New Year festivities will once again return to Chinatown later this month, with a range of fun family activities to mark the occasion, beginning on Friday February 16th and continuing all that weekend.
After the success of the Year of the Rooster in 2017, this time it is the Year of the Dog. Main events include the exhibit of China’s First Emperor’s Terracotta Warriors, which are being exhibited in Liverpool’s World Museum – the first time they have been seen in the UK outside of London.
Other events include the traditional Chinese Lion, Dragon and Unicorn parade, which is usually attended by thousands in the city centre.
The parade will dance its way down Nelson and Berry Streets followed by a spectacular firecracker display synonymous with traditions. There will also be music and a special appearance from the ‘Lucky Man’, who will be greeting and handing out red envelopes to children for good fortune.
Brain Wong, the founder of Liverpool Chinese Business Association, said: “All over the world 1.4 billion Chinese will celebrate the Year of the Dog, it symbolises peace and harmony, love and family reunion.
YouTube: Daisy Scott
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfKiF5VjEgE
“Liverpool Chinatown is the oldest in Europe since 1860, because of our vibrant port city and shipping sea link with China. With the blessing of the Year of Dog, it will enhance and galvanise the golden relationship between China and Britain.”
To begin the week, the Chinese Arch will be illuminated with traditional red lanterns, while a street market will take place alongside the jubilance on Great George Street with a variety of stalls featuring traditional and modern Chinese cuisine, as well as homemade gifts.
If you want to take time out from the hustle and bustle of the celebrations, there will be a Tai Chi demonstration in Great George Square, combining deep breathing with the gentle movement of the traditional form of Chinese exercise.
A VIP dinner will be taking place later on in the evening at The Liner Hotel as local and internationally-renowned performers will be entertaining the guests. It will be presented by Billy Hui from BBC Radio Merseyside’s Orient Express programme, and will feature a combination of a three-course meal with both Chinese and Western cuisines.
YouTube (2017): Laura Hughes