Exciting Chinese New Year Activities in London for the Year of the Snake

Discover vibrant celebrations in London for the Chinese New Year, welcoming the Year of the Snake with parades, performances, and delicious food

London: With about 1.5% of its population having Chinese ancestry, London celebrates Chinese New Year big time. That’s around 150,000 people joining in the fun.

This festival is celebrated in many South Asian countries too. Places like Korea, Vietnam, and Singapore all have their own names for it. In London, it’s one of the biggest celebrations outside Asia.

2025 marks the Year of the Snake, returning since 2013. If you were born in 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, or 1941, this year is said to be lucky for you.

So, how can you join the celebrations in London? Let’s take a look.

London Chinese New Year Parade

The official parade happens the weekend after the Lunar New Year. This year, the New Year starts on Wednesday, January 29, and the parade is on Sunday, February 2.

It kicks off at noon with speeches and the Lions’ Eye-Dotting Ceremony at Trafalgar Square. Then, it winds through Charing Cross Road and Chinatown.

Throughout the day, you can enjoy performances in Trafalgar Square. Expect dragon dances, martial arts, and modern artists from China.

There are also arts and crafts stalls and tasty Chinese street food. Many local restaurants offer special menus, but they fill up fast.

The grand finale is at 6 PM, featuring a techno lion dance and fireworks lighting up Trafalgar Square.

West End Stages

If the weather isn’t great, the West End has special performances for everyone. You can catch traditional shows and British-Chinese artists in dance, music, and comedy.