Year of the Snake set to slither into Melbourne
Tuesday 28 January 2025
Melbourne’s famous Chinatown precinct is gearing up for its biggest celebration of the year as the city ushers in the Year of the Snake.
The annual Chinese Lunar New Year festival is a celebration of Chinatown’s vibrant history, culture and community, which last year attracted more than 200,000 people.
Celebrations this year include long-standing favourites the Millennium Dragon Parade, immersive cultural performances and a spread of authentic Asian culinary delights.
Exciting new offerings in 2025 include:
- A beer garden in the theatre district between Russell and Little Bourke streets
- A family-friendly area in the Golden Square car park
In Chinese astrology, the Year of the Snake represents transformation, renewal and spiritual growth. The snake sign is also associated with wisdom, intelligence, creativity and resourcefulness.
Melbourne’s Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in the western world, established in the 1850s off the back of the Victorian goldrush era. More than 20 per cent of Melbourne residents have Chinese ancestry and more than 10 per cent were born in China.
The City of Melbourne is supporting the Melbourne Chinatown Business Association with $90,000 through its Business Precinct Program.
Council’s Business Precinct Program has supported business and precinct associations for more than 20 years – creating opportunities to network and educate, while attracting people to every corner of our city.
Chinese Lunar New Year will take place in Melbourne’s famous Chinatown precinct at Little Bourke Street and surrounds on Sunday 2 February, from 10am to 8pm.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Nick Reece
“This is the biggest, loudest, most colourful day of the year in Melbourne’s Chinatown. We’re expecting more than 200,000 people to cheer on the Millenium Dragon Parade, dance alongside the Lions and enjoy some traditional Asian delicacies.”
“Melbourne wouldn’t be what it is today without its Chinese heritage, and our ongoing modern, vibrant Chinese community.”
“I invite all Melburnians to embrace the Year of the Snake – shed old habits and embrace new connections.”
Quotes attributable to City Economy and Business portfolio lead Kevin Louey
“Lunar New Year in Chinatown is a place where our community can immerse themselves in Chinese traditions and modern culture – welcoming families, students, workers and visitors.”
“Melbourne is home to a vibrant Chinese community with a longstanding heritage in our city – and we’re proud to celebrate alongside them as we ring in the Year of the Snake.”
Quotes attributable to Melbourne Chinatown Business Association President Christina Zhao
“The Year of the Snake will bring prosperity and wealth, and it’s symbolic that this year’s festival falls on the fifth day of the lunar new year – the traditional time to honour the god of wealth.”
“The activities are endless – from a new beer garden in the theatre district to a family entertainment area featuring toy-making workshops, face painting and Hanfu costume dress-ups.”
