There are few annual celebrations to rival Chinese New Year. The sights, sounds, and smells are incredible and the colors just increase the joy of the occasion. With amazing food, dragon dances and fireworks, if you are anywhere near a Chinatown at New Year, you really owe it to yourself to go and partake of an amazing spectacle. Go herald in the Chinese New Year at any of these aromatic, colorful and fascinating Chinatowns around the world.
1. San Francisco, USA
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Source: Another view of Chinatown, San ...
2. Boston, USA
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Source: Chinatown Arch HDR
3. Bangkok, Thailand
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4. Los Angeles, USA
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Source: Colors a Bloom
5. New York, USA
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Source: New York City Manhattan Chinatown ...
6. Chicago, USA
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7. Paris, France
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Source: Welcome to Flickr - Photo ...
8. Nagasaki, Japan
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Source: Nagasaki China town lanterns
9. Manchester, UK
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Source: Asian deco/antiques
10. Manila, the Philippines
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11. Honolulu, USA
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12. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Source: Vietnam
13. Yokohama, Japan
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Source: HDR Photo: Yokohama China Town
14. Victoria, Canada
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Source: Heart's Content
15. Melbourne, Australia
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Source: Melbourne Chinatown
16. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Source: Expat Jobs | Tips and ...
17. London, UK
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Source: UK AND ROYALTY
18. Sydney, Australia
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Source: Travel/Voyage
19. Toronto, Canada
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Source: Downtown Toronto
20. Vancouver, Canada
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21. Houston, USA
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Source: Visit the young and vibrant ...
22. Liverpool, UK
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Source: Liverpool Chinatown
23. Kobe, Japan
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Source: IMG_1606
24. Yangon, Myanmar
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Source: Colorful Buildings
25. Singapore
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Source: let's be adventurous
26. Hong Kong
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Source: Hong Kong in the Rain: ...
27. Philadelphia, USA
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28. Seattle, USA
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29. Malacca, Malaysia
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Source: Malacca: the city that best ...
30. Portland, USA
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Source: 7 spring flings in the ...
31. Antwerp, Belgium
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Source: Chinatown&Chinese New Year
32. Incheon, South Korea
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Source: Chinatown, Incheon, South Korea
33. Semarang, Indonesia
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Source: Indigenous Indonesia
34. Kolkata, India
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Source: Photography
35. Moscow, Russia
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Source: Kitay Gorod
36. Milan, Italy
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Source: Food&Drink
37. Of Course - Beijing, China
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Source: Learn Chinese Speak
All that remains for me to say is Gong Xi Fa Cai (or Kung Hei Fat Choy) - Happy New Year!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chinese New Year and why is it celebrated?
- Chinese New Year is a traditional festival marking the start of the lunar new year, celebrated with family reunions, special foods, and cultural events.
- Which Chinatown is best for experiencing authentic Chinese New Year celebrations?
- Chinatowns in San Francisco, New York, and Vancouver are famous for their vibrant parades, lion dances, and festive markets.
- When is the best time to visit Chinatown for Chinese New Year?
- Chinese New Year usually falls between late January and mid-February, with celebrations lasting up to two weeks.
- What kind of activities can I expect in Chinatown during Chinese New Year?
- You can enjoy dragon and lion dances, fireworks, traditional performances, and special food festivals.
- Are Chinese New Year events in Chinatown family-friendly?
- Yes, most Chinatown events are family-friendly with activities designed for all ages.
- Do I need to book accommodations early to visit Chinatown during Chinese New Year?
- Yes, since it's a popular travel time, booking your stay early is recommended to secure the best options.
- What traditional foods should I try during Chinese New Year in Chinatown?
- Try dumplings, rice cakes, spring rolls, and sweet glutinous rice balls, which symbolize prosperity and good luck.
- Is it safe to visit Chinatown during the crowded Chinese New Year celebrations?
- Yes, Chinatowns are generally safe, but it's good to stay aware of your surroundings due to the large crowds.
- Can I participate in the Chinese New Year customs while visiting Chinatown?
- Many events welcome visitors to join in, like giving red envelopes or watching and learning about traditional dances.
- Are there any special shopping opportunities in Chinatown during Chinese New Year?
- Yes, there are many markets selling decorations, gifts, and festive foods that make great souvenirs.