February 10 marks Lunar New Year, one of the biggest public holidays celebrated in the Chinese, east and south east Asian calendars.
This year marks the Chinese Year of the Dragon and if you’re planning a trip to Greenwich this month there’s plenty to see and do to mark the festivities of Lunar New Year.
Whether you want to sample some Chinese food and drink, find out about east and south east Asian history or try a new skill – there’s something for everyone in this guide.
We’ve picked some of the best things we think you shouldn’t miss in Greenwich this month to celebrate Lunar New Year 2024.
Here are our top picks:
Learn about Chinese Astronomy at a Planetarium Show
Where? Harrison Planetarium, Royal Observatory Greenwich
When? February 3 and February 10 from 10:30am - 11:15am
How much? Adults £10, children £5
Astronomy enthusiasts can learn about Chinese astronomy and how ancient Chinese astronomers observed the planets, moon, sun and stars to tell time in this immersive planetarium show that takes you across space.
You’ll also learn some of the stories associated with the Lunar New Year and the zodiacs.
Discover Asia’s history at one of the museums
Where? Royal Museum Greenwich (various locations)
When? February 3
To mark Lunar New Year, Royal Museums will be hosting an array of talks, workshops and events on February 3 to mark the festivities, with events suitable for all ages.
Spread across all of the sites in Greenwich, this day will allow visitors to try their hand at Korean calligraphy or mahjong.
Visitors can also watch demonstrations of Lion Dancing on Romney Road on the day, or hear about the history of the Cutty Sark and the role it played on trade in China, delivered by the character of Chinese sailor James Robson.
Try some authentic street food
Where? North west lawns outside the National Maritime Museum
When? February 3
Anyone looking to try some authentic east and south east Asian food should head over to the lawns outside the National Maritime Museum, where a range of food traders will be serving a selection of street food.
Sample a festive cocktail inspired by the year of the dragon
Where? Canteen Food Hall & Bar, Greenwich Peninsula
When? Monday to Sunday, from 8am – 10pm
Cocktail lovers can enjoy a festive Lunar New Year-themed cocktail at Greenwich Peninsula’s Canteen Food Hall & Bar.
As part of Greenwich Peninsula’s 14-day event in celebration of Lunar New Year, the Canteen Food Hall & Bar will be offering a range of craft cocktails using Sake – a Japanese rice wine sourced from a local south London brewery.
If you visit on Saturday, February 10 between 2pm and 8pm you can also enjoy some music performed by DJ Miamor, DJ Flecs and DJ Donny Blaze.
If you get hungry from dancing why not try some Chinese rice bowls and dumplings from Juk Pou and taste an array of East Asian dishes from Choy House, including their sweet dumplings for Lunar New Year.
Watch some Dragon Dancing
When? February 10, from 1pm – 3pm
Where? Peninsula Square and Design District, Greenwich Peninsula
How much? Free
On Saturday, February 10 to mark Lunar New Year, visitors who stop by Peninsula Square can watch some traditional Dragon Dancing – a traditional form of dance to symbolise strength, good fortune and prosperity.
Explore the art of Chinese tapestry
Where? Design District, Greenwich Peninsula
When? February 10 – February 24
How much? Free
If you like tapestry, Greenwich’s Design District is hosting a number of events and displays centred around the artform.
From February 10 until February 24, people who visit the Bureau restaurant can explore contemporary tapestry from Hong Kong born artist Nicole Chui.
Nicole's work aims to create new memories by providing spaces for the underrepresented, inspiring others to embrace raw emotions.
Selected as one of the '25 future faces 25 and under' by the Evening Standard in 2019, Nicole’s work has been showcased at venues such as the NOW Gallery and Somerset House.
If you stop by the Firepit Art Gallery and Studio on Cutter Lane, you can also find the Splendours of Henan: A Cultural Tapestry exhibition, showcasing designs from the Henan province in east-central China.
To celebrate Lunar New Year, the exhibition celebrates Henan's rich heritage, showcasing intangible cultural artefacts, evocative old photographs and local specialties.
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