Sheffield’s Lunar New Year Festival 2025: What You Need to Know

The 2025 Lunar New Year is set to be a dazzling celebration in Sheffield, running from February 1st to 2nd. The city centre will be transformed into a vibrant spectacle of colour, culture, and community, bringing together people from across Yorkshire.

Organised by Cultural Inclusive, a local Community Interest Company, the festival has the support of Sheffield City Council and the Sheffield BID. This year, expect it to be the biggest Lunar New Year event the city has ever seen, with something exciting around every corner.

A festival stage at the Peace Gardens

A focal point of the event is the main stage at the Peace Gardens, where a packed schedule of performances will keep festivalgoers entertained. Expect the highlight of the weekend to be the Foshan Lion Dance Troupe.

Coming all the way from Foshan, China, this troupe is famous worldwide for its stunning acrobatics and will perform on a towering 15-metre platform—a true sight to behold! For those who haven't seen a lion dance before, it’s an exhilarating mix of drums, dance, and incredible movement, symbolising good fortune and happiness for the coming year.

Thousands of lanterns light up the city

More than 1,000 Chinese lanterns will illuminate Sheffield’s streets, creating a magical glow throughout the city centre. As you wander, you’ll find giant zodiac characters standing proudly, each representing one of the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac. The best part? You can scan QR codes on each one to learn about your zodiac sign and what the Year of the Snake has in store for you.

Food, fun, and family-friendly activities

It’s not just performances and lights; there’s something for everyone at this festival. The streets will be lined with food stalls, offering a world of flavours and traditional treats, perfect for those wanting to try a little of everything. There will be workshops for children, hands-on arts and crafts, and even interactive performances to immerse you in the culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or simply curious, the festival has something for all.

For those looking for things to do around Sheffield, check out Yorkshire’s event listings to plan your next adventure.

A celebration with a positive impact

What makes this festival extra special is its focus on community. Since it began, it’s grown rapidly and has already been nominated for The Spirit of Sheffield Award at the Sheffield Business Awards—a testament to the festival’s success in fostering inclusivity and community spirit.

Jerry Cheung, founder of Cultural Inclusive, spoke about the vision behind the event, saying, “Our mission is to create an inclusive platform that celebrates the richness and diversity of all cultures.”

When and where to go

• Dates: February 1-2, 2025
• Location: Sheffield City Centre, Peace Gardens as the main hub
• Free Entry: Enjoy the festival for free, though food and workshops may have small fees

For those interested in exploring more family-friendly activities, the Yorkshire Events Guide has a wealth of ideas to keep you entertained throughout the season.

So, grab your friends, bring your family, and get ready to kick off the Lunar New Year in Sheffield!