Lunar New Year: Parramatta
Parramatta Square
4-9pm, Friday 20 February
Kick-off the Year of the Horse with street food, high-pole lion dancers, Cosplay, DJs and a 12m archway from artist Chris Yee. FREE ENTRY.
Gather your friends and join us in Parramatta Square for a night of celebration, food and live music.
Entertainment
Experience the energy and tradition of Lunar New Year with:
- High‑Pole Lion Dancers soaring three metres above the ground - an unmissable Parramatta Square highlight.
- Traditional firecrackers, God of Wealth appearances, lively roving performers, and Mahjong workshops bringing good fortune and festive energy.
- Suit up for the S.M.A.S.H. Cosplay Catwalk Competition open to all ages and all skill levels. Come show us your creativity. Registration required.
Live Music
Feel the rhythm of Lunar New Year with a powerhouse line‑up:
- DJ sets from Pho The Girls, Maggie Tra MSG, and Chun Le will keep the beats pumping all night.
- Live performances from Wytchings, Kurt Lam, Jade Kenjii, Movement Nation and Part of Piece.
- Karoake is your chance to belt out your favourite songs and become part of the soundtrack to Lunar New Year 2026 in Parramatta Square.
Art Installation
Tuesday 17 February – Wednesday 4 March
Capture Chris Yee’s 12m archway titled ‘Destination/Arrival’ in Parramatta Square. Featuring the Fire Horse and inspired by traditional motifs and modern design, the artwork reflects today’s Asian-Australian identities and the vibrant, diverse personality of Parramatta.
The installation leads us into a hyper-colour year of excitement, action and a promising future. Proudly supported by Porsche Centre Parramatta for the Macan EV.
Chinese Wishing Tree in PHIVE
Tuesday 17 – Tuesday 24 February at PHIVE
Make a wish at the traditional Chinese Wishing Tree, returning to PHIVE in Parramatta Square. Write your wish, hope or goals for the year ahead and hang them on the tree. A meaningful way to connect with culture or discover something new.
Come along, make a memory, and celebrate Lunar New Year with Optus.
Food to Enjoy
Savour the flavours of Lunar New Year with street food stalls serving up delicious noodles, dumplings, bubble tea and other insta-worthy delicacies.
Tokyo Taco, Wagyu Black and KOI are on the list of names behind just some of the cultural eats on offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore all the frequently asked questions to plan a fun filled Lunar New Year celebrations in Parramatta Square.
Lunar New Year in Epping
Saturday 21 February
Double the Lunar New Year fun! Join us for a second night of festivities at Boronia Park, Epping.
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Partners and Sponsors
Funding for this project has been provided by the NSW Government.
The Chinese Wishing Tree is proudly supported by Optus.
Chris Yee's Year of the Fire Horse installation "Destination/Arrival" is proudly supported by Porsche Centre Parramatta for the Macan EV.
McConnell Bourn is the partner of the Lunar New Year Cultural Stage at Epping.
Thank you to our local supporter: Community Bank Epping - Bendigo Bank
