From Chinese banquets and trails, to traditional lion dances, martial arts, and arts and craftsThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Authentic lion dance by University of Bristol Lion Dance Troupe for Chinese New Year celebrations at Bristol Museum.
(Image: BristolLive)
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival, is celebrated widely throughout East Asia and the diaspora annually. This year it begins on Wednesday, February 17 this year, the Year of the Fire Horse in the Chinese zodiac.
It is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture and was even placed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2024. To celebrate, Bristol is hosting an array of events and festivities with plenty of music, food and traditional activities, to mark the occasion. While not all details have been confirmed for some events, BristolLive will be updating this page in the coming weeks – so be sure to check back again for more.
With the celebratory period running right up until March 3 this year, events may fall on dates leading up to, on, or after February 17, giving you perfect reason to celebrate the New Year at more than one of the events in the list below. Here’s a few we’ve found so far to pique your interest…
Lunar New Year 2026 at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
When: February 28, 10am-5pm
Where: Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL
As part of this joyous time to come together and welcome the year ahead with hope and excitement, this celebration at Bristol Museum aims to honour the heritage and culture of our South-East Asian communities with lion dances, spectacular martial arts and dance performances, craft activities, roving pandas, and the chance to learn about cultural traditions.
Plus, there will be a ‘Horse Detective Trail’ to embark on around the museum, and visitors will be able to enjoy a Chinese-inspired menu in the cafe, as well as browsing beautiful Chinese goods for sale in the shop, including everything from toys to vases.
A programme of performances is due to be published to the official museum website here in the coming weeks.
Chinese New Year celebrations at Eastgate Oriental City in Bristol(Image: James Beck/Freelance)
Chinese New Year Extravaganza at the Redgrave Theatre
When: January 31, 2pm
Where: Redgrave Theatre, Percival Road, Clifton, BS8 3LE
Jinlong brings the ‘Chinese New Year Extravaganza’, described as an unforgettable show filled with vibrant colours, awe-inspiring performances, and endless fun! Touring across the UK, this sensational event brings one of the biggest celebrations in the Chinese calendar to life on stage.
“Be enchanted by the joyous Lion Dance, marvel at breathtaking acrobatics, and discover the world of wonder with dazzling new acts alongside beloved audience favourites. And don’t miss the playful charm of our mischievous pandas – guaranteed to bring a touch of PANDA-monium to the festivities!
“This kaleidoscope of Chinese cultural traditions offers something for everyone, making it the perfect outing for families, friends, and culture enthusiasts alike. Suitable for all ages, the Chinese New Year Extravaganza promise an extraordinary experience on this auspicious occasion.”
25th Anniversary Chinese New Year Extravaganza at Wongs Restaurant
When: February 26, 6-9pm
Where: Denmark Street, Bristol, BS1 5DQ
Wongs Restaurant is hosting a celebration of 25 years of the Bristol – Guangzhou partnership and kicking off the Year of the Horse with a night filled with food, traditional performances and festive decorations. Cllr Henry Michallat, Lord Mayor of Bristol, and other guests will be in attendance.
Tickets start from £48.56 and can be bought here.
Wai Yee Hong
When: TBC
Where: Eastgate Oriental City, Eastgate Road, Eastville, BS5 6XX
While the final details of the 2026 New Year’s celebrations have not yet been unveiled, this annual celebration is the biggest in the South West, and is known for even raising money for The Grand Appeal. Located at the Wai Yee Hong Chinese supermarket in Eastgate Oriental City, this family event is free to attend and, if 2025 is anything to go by, will feature dance and martial arts performances, as well as the traditional lion dance.