Experience the vibrancy of Lunar New Year in Ōtepoti Dunedin. Whether you're visiting from across the country or across the globe, this is a special time to explore Dunedin’s cultural heartbeat and join locals in welcoming the new year.
Each year, Dunedin comes alive with colour, culture, and celebration for the Dunedin Chinese Cultural Festival – our city's signature Lunar New Year event. Rooted in tradition and proudly hosted in partnership with Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Garden, the festival is a vibrant blend of heritage and contemporary creativity. With performances, workshops, installations, and community activations, it’s a unique opportunity to experience Chinese culture through a distinctly Dunedin lens.
Festival Dates for 2026
Sunday 15 February – Tuesday 3 March 2026
Spanning over two dynamic weeks, the Dunedin Chinese Cultural Festival offers a rich programme of cultural experiences:
- Workshops and demonstrations: Try your hand at calligraphy, dumpling-making, tai chi, or tea ceremonies
- Lanterns and installations: Discover red lantern displays, wishing trees, and public art installations across the city
- Roaming performances and pop-ups: Enjoy live music, lion dances, and cultural performances in unexpected places
- Venue-based events: Join our partner venues in their own unique celebrations
Whether you're a culture-seeker, foodie, or family traveller, there's something to enjoy every day.
Don’t Miss: The Chinese New Year Celebration
Saturday 21 February 2026 | Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Garden & The Octagon
This is the flagship event of the festival – and the one to plan your trip around.
Each year, thousands gather in the heart of the city for the Chinese New Year Celebration – a spectacular day and night of performances, food, and festivity. The event begins with a street parade through the city followed by a vibrant celebration at Lan Yuan, where you'll find:
- Traditional and contemporary performances on stage
- Lion and dragon dances
- Chinese market-style food stalls with local and regional vendors
- Fireworks lighting up the night sky (a crowd favourite!)
- Interactive activities for all ages
It’s the biggest and most visually striking moment of the festival – a joyful, high-energy celebration that brings together local communities and international visitors alike.
If you're planning to visit Dunedin in 2026, Saturday 21 February is the date to circle on your calendar.
Festival Highlights from Previous Years
- Fireworks spectaculars and evening light-ups
- Live performances by Chinese and local artists
- Lantern parades and traditional storytelling
- Cultural exhibitions and tea tastings
- Citywide decorations and red lantern trails
Join Us in 2026
From street performances to serene garden ceremonies, the Dunedin Chinese Cultural Festival blends tradition, creativity, and southern hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience it again, it’s the perfect reason to travel south for summer.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Dunedin.