The vibrant streets of Liverpool came alive with a spectacular display of colour and culture as the city officially launched its Lunar New Year celebrations. Dragon dancers and performers adorned in traditional Beijing opera-style costumes brought an energetic and visually stunning procession to the heart of the city centre, marking the beginning of festivities for the upcoming Year of the Horse.
Festive Transformation Across the City
Liverpool's Chinatown district and the iconic Royal Albert Dock were beautifully decorated with countless red lanterns, creating a festive atmosphere in honour of the Chinese New Year. The city's most prominent architectural landmarks, including Liverpool Town Hall and St George's Hall, were illuminated with striking red lighting schemes to commemorate the occasion. This coordinated visual transformation demonstrated the city's commitment to embracing and celebrating diverse cultural traditions.
A Procession of Traditional Arts
The main procession, which took place yesterday afternoon, was organised and led by several cultural organisations including the Liverpool Hung Gar Kung Fu Friendship Association, Pagoda Arts, and the award-winning dance company Movema. Beginning at Church Alley and progressing through to the Royal Albert Dock, the parade featured captivating performances that delighted spectators of all ages.
Stilt walkers towered above the crowds while performers in elaborate, colourful costumes representing Beijing opera traditions mesmerised onlookers. The procession also showcased two magnificent lantern art installations commissioned by Culture Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and Liverpool ONE – one depicting a horse and two featuring traditional dragons. These impressive centrepieces particularly captivated children in attendance, who were able to interact with the displays.
Symbolism of the Year of the Horse
In Chinese cultural tradition, the horse represents several important qualities including remarkable speed, enduring vitality, and unwavering persistence. Those individuals born during a Year of the Horse are believed to embody similar characteristics, often demonstrating notable independence, strong work ethic, and determined spirit. The Year of the Horse officially commences on February 17, with the main Liverpool celebrations scheduled for February 22.
Upcoming Festivities and Community Spirit
The Lunar New Year celebrations will continue throughout the weekend with events planned from 11am until 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Attendees can look forward to a diverse programme including Tai Chi demonstrations, various cultural performances, a traditional fairground, educational workshops, and numerous market stalls offering authentic goods and cuisine.
Sunday's events will feature particularly exciting elements with planned firecracker displays and additional parades showcasing traditional Chinese mythological creatures including dragons, lions, and unicorns. Smaller scale celebrations are also scheduled to take place on the day preceding the main events.
Official Statements of Celebration
Liverpool City Council's cabinet member for culture, Harry Doyle, expressed his enthusiasm for the celebrations, telling the BBC: "No city welcomes the Lunar New Year quite like Liverpool, and the city will once again come alive with colour, culture, and celebration as we enter the Year of the Horse. With free events, beautiful installations, quiet and accessible activities, and so much more – there really is something for everyone this year."
Ming Wang, secretary general of the Merseyside Chinese Association Joint Action Group, added: "As we turn the page from the Year of the Snake, we gallop joyfully into the vibrant Year of the Horse - a year bursting with strength, freedom, and spirited adventure. Our local Chinese community, Culture Liverpool, and many partner organisations have once again come together with great heart and dedication to create a dazzling programme of arts and cultural events for all to enjoy."
The collaborative efforts between Liverpool's Chinese community organisations, cultural institutions, and city authorities have resulted in a comprehensive celebration that honours traditional Chinese customs while creating an inclusive atmosphere for all Liverpool residents and visitors to experience and appreciate.
