If there’s one place in Metro Vancouver that truly comes alive for Lunar New Year, it’s Richmond. As one of Canada’s most vibrant hubs for Chinese and other Asian communities, Richmond is definitely the place to be at this time of year! From lion dances to lantern workshops, temple blessings, and soup dumplings – bring your entire family to welcome the Year of the Horse.
Aberdeen Centre
Aberdeen Centre always goes big for Lunar New Year, and this year is no exception! From February 6 to 17, wander through their Flower and Gift Fair, perfect for picking up festive décor and red pockets. And on February 16, don’t miss the Year of the Horse Party stage show and live countdown.
February 17 at 11:00am brings the always thrilling Lion and Dragon Dance in the outdoor courtyard.
Lansdowne Centre
Head to Lansdowne on February 21 from noon to 5:00pm for an opening ceremony featuring a dragon and lion dance by the Hon Hsing Athletic Club, interactive games, and an artisan market.
Richmond Centre
On February 21, catch the Lion and Dragon Dance along with the traditional eye dotting ceremony and “grabbing green” merchant tour, where lions symbolically collect offerings for good fortune.
From February 17 to March 3, families can enjoy cultural experiences like a calligraphy wall, lantern making workshops, and digital red envelopes. It’s hands on, interactive, and great for photo ops!
If malls arent your vibe, there are other spots in Richmond to celebrate the new year:
Gateway Theatre
The Silk Road Music Lunar New Year Celebration matinee concert on February 28 at 2:00pm offers a cultural deep dive through music. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate while introducing kids to traditional sounds and stories.
Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site
On February 14, 15, and 16 from 11:00am to 4:00pm, enjoy free zodiac themed activities, games, and decoration making at the Chinese Bunkhouse. It’s educational, engaging, and completely family friendly.
Steveston Tram
From February 13 to 16 between 10:00am and 4:00pm, the Steveston Tram hosts a themed Family Day scavenger hunt. It’s a fun way to explore Steveston while keeping little ones entertained.
Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site
On February 15 from 1:30pm to 4:00pm, enjoy a free outdoor performance by the Vancouver Chinese Lion Dance Association. With admission, families can also participate in a Chinese lucky knot keychain workshop. It’s hands on and meaningful.
No Lunar New Year celebration is complete without a feast, and Richmond’s Dumpling Trail is practically a rite of passage.
Empire Seafood Restaurant
One of Richmond’s oldest and most elegant Cantonese restaurants, Empire Seafood is ideal for large family gatherings. Think classic dim sum carts, steamed shrimp dumplings, and celebratory seafood dishes.
Dinesty Dumplings
Famous for their soup dumplings, Dinesty serves Shanghainese and Taiwanese favourites in a lively setting.
Yuan’s Garden Restaurant
Known for their XLBs and crispy bottomed sheng jian bao, Yuan’s Garden is comfort food heaven.
Kam Do Bakery
Pick up a Lunar New Year themed cake featuring a festive horse design in the flavour of your choice.
Little Fox Bakehouse
For a modern twist, try the pineapple double baked croissant, hojicha white chocolate mousse, or white rabbit mochi donut!
Join the traditional Ringing the Bell blessing ceremony on February 16 and 17.
For more information on events and places to visit in Richmond, visit: https://www.visitrichmondbc.com/ – Happy Lunar New Year!
