Chinese New Year in London
The start of the Lunar year is fast approaching, and millions of people around the globe are preparing to celebrate Chinese New Year on 28th January. The celebration will mark the end of the year of the Monkey, and symbolise the beginning of the Year of the Rooster as defined by the Chinese zodiac cycle.
Chinese New Year is traditionally celebrated with the ringing of bells, the lighting of firecrackers and watching traditional lion and dragon dances. These dances are originally thought to be a way to pray for good luck and drive away evil spirits. Many wear new clothes from head to toe to symbolise a new start and fresh hopes for the year, with most opting to wear red as it is thought to be the lucky colour. Chinese traditions state that during the New Year celebrations you should buy something red for yourself or your home to bring luck to your year.
London’s Chinese New Year celebrations are the largest outside Asia and feature parades, performances and fireworks. Hundreds of thousands of people descend on the West End, Trafalgar Square and Chinatown to wish each other a Happy New Year. The festivities are free to attend and will see a colourful parade and stage performances including traditional dance troupes, acrobats and martial arts. The grand finale is fireworks and a spectacular show in Trafalgar Square.
If you want to join in the celebrations in London this year, then book in at the Rembrandt Hotel to stay in the middle of the action. Just 20 minutes from the West End, Chinatown and Trafalgar Square, you can enjoy all the festivities of Chinese New Year and then relax in one of our 194 luxurious bedrooms.
To make a booking or find out more, contact us on 020 3740 7145 or email [email protected].
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