The Lunar New Year is a time of celebration, family reunions, and cultural festivities, and Waverley Council in Sydney is embracing the spirit of the season with a variety of exciting events. Whether you’re a local or visiting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this year as Waverley brings the community together to honor the Year of the Snake.

From crafting sessions to traditional lion dances, here’s a roundup of the top Lunar New Year events happening in the Waverley Council area!

1. Crafternoon Session at Waverley Library

If you’re looking for a hands-on way to celebrate the Lunar New Year, the Crafternoon Session at Waverley Library is perfect for you. This creative event allows participants to get crafty while learning about the cultural significance behind the festivities. Explore Chinese traditions, arts, and crafts, all while making something beautiful to take home.

2. Storytime Fun with Eva Wang at Waverley Library

For families with young children, don’t miss the Storytime Fun with Eva Wang at Waverley Library. This special session features bilingual stories in both Mandarin and English, perfect for children to learn about Chinese culture through the magic of storytelling. Eva Wang will guide the session, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

  • When: 3 February
  • Where: Waverley Library, Children’s Section (Ground Floor)
  • Time: 11 am – 11.30 am
  • Booking: Reserve your spot here

3. Traditional Lion Dancing at Bondi Pavilion

The iconic Bondi Pavilion will come alive with the energy and color of traditional Lion Dancing on 8 February. Join in the festivities as Sydney Lion Dance brings the Year of the Snake celebration to life with two exciting lion dance performances. These performances are not only a visual treat but also a symbolic part of the Lunar New Year, believed to bring good luck and drive away bad spirits.

  • When: 8 February
  • Where: Bondi Pavilion
  • Time: Lion Dance performances at 11 am and 1 pm (30 minutes each)
  • Free Entry: No booking required, just come and enjoy the show!

4. Mooncake Workshop at The Boot Factory

A highlight of the Lunar New Year season is, of course, the Mooncake Workshop! Mooncakes are a traditional Chinese pastry that are a must-have during the festivities, and now you can learn to make your own in this special workshop. Discover the history and cultural significance of mooncakes, then roll up your sleeves and get hands-on as you create your own batch under expert guidance. At the end of the session, you’ll take home your beautifully crafted mooncakes in a lovely gift box.

  • When: 20 February
  • Where: The Boot Factory, 27-33 Spring Street, Bondi Junction
  • Time: 6.30 pm – 8 pm
  • Ticket Info: Tickets have sold out, but you can join the waitlist here

More Events and Activities

In addition to the above events, Waverley Council has more in store for the Lunar New Year. The area will be filled with festive decorations, markets, and street performances, making it the perfect time to explore the local culture and experience the diversity of Waverley.

Why You Should Celebrate Lunar New Year in Waverley

Waverley’s Lunar New Year celebrations are a fantastic way to dive into Chinese culture while enjoying a family-friendly, welcoming environment. Whether you’re participating in the Crafternoon, learning bilingual stories at the Storytime session, or being wowed by the Lion Dance, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the community and experience the joy of the Lunar New Year.

Waverley is not just about celebrating; it’s about learning, creating, and making lasting memories with friends and family. It’s the perfect place to experience this important holiday, with something for every age group to enjoy.

So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and come join in the Lunar New Year festivities in Waverley. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

by jay