By Michelle Yu
Happy Lunar New Year! The Lunar New Year is the most important holiday for many countries in Asia. This year, it is on Saturday, 10th February 2024. In the lunar calendar, each year is designated an animal, and the cycle repeats every 12 years. Interestingly, 2024 is the Year of the Dragon, which is considered one of the most auspicious and powerful animal years.
Want to know how you’ll fare this year? Depending on which year you were born, your fate and fortune will vary. Visit https://www.thechinesezodiac.org/year-of-the-dragon/ for your horoscope – scroll down to the section marked ‘Chinese Horoscope 2024: What Awaits Each Sign’.
Otherwise, let’s kick off the festivities by taking part in these free, wonderful events being held in the Western suburbs.
The celebrations are not limited to this major events list. Various Lunar New Year snacks can also be found at many Asian groceries, including assorted cookies and candies.
Happy celebrating to all!
Quang Minh Tet Festival
Local community, Vietnamese, Chinese Buddhists and non-Buddhists are all welcome at this festival. Experience the richness of Lunar and Buddhist traditional celebrations, including performances, firecrackers, fireworks, chanting and delicious vegetarian food.
Friday 9th February 6pm to Saturday 10th February 1am.
Quang Minh Temple, 18 Burke St, Braybrook, Braybrook
More information: Quang Minh Tet Festival – Maribyrnong City Council
Lunar New Year in Hobsons Bay
Celebrate Lunar New Year in Hobsons Bay with live music, dance, performances and more fun. Stay tuned for the full program coming soon.
At Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown:
Saturday 17th February, 11am to 2pm
At Homestead Run Reserve, Seabrook
Saturday 17th February, 2pm – 6pm
More information: hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/Arts-Events-Culture/Events-Festivals/Major-Events-Festivals/Summer-Events/Lunar-New-Year
Also see: Lunar New Year Bingo at the Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre. Find out more and book tickets here:
hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/Whats-On/Lunar-New-Year-Bingo
Wyndham Multicultural Lunar Festival 2024
Besides Lion dances, Dragon dances and fireworks, there will be around 85 performances featuring artists from the rich and diverse community. There will also be a cultural exhibition of traditional landscapes and portraits. With something for the whole family, do come along!
Sunday 18th February, 11am to 9pm
Main Street, Point Cook.
More information: onlymelbourne.com.au/wyndham-multicultural-lunar-festival
Dragon Balls XL Footscray
Queer Lunar New Year with a 100% LGBTQI+/Asian lineup.
Hosted by the Gaysian Empress Dyan Tai and headliner Ivory Glaze (Drag Race Down Under S2), Dragon Balls XL is a joyous celebration of Queer and Asian culture, with live shows, an art installation, DJs and lion dance performances.
Friday 16th February 7.30pm-1am
Pride of Our Footscray, 86-88 Hopkins St, Footscray
