Year of the Dragon celebrations start across UK

Zhao Fei, minister of China's embassy in the UK, and Paul Milbank, sector lead for culture, arts, heritage and sport with the government of Jersey, dot a dragon's eye during a news conference in London. Photo: Courtesy of Cultural Section of China's Embassy in the UK

In a vibrant display of cultural festivities, the UK is currently immersed in a series of events celebrating the Year of the Dragon. 

Standout attractions include the showcase of two national intangible cultural heritage items – the Chongqing Tongliang Dragon and Guangdong Puning Yingge dance – at Burlington Arcade on February 10th. The Science Museum hosts the grand opening of the exhibition "Zimingzhong: Clockwork Treasures from China’s Forbidden City" from February 1st to June 2nd.  The 6th China-UK International Music Festival promises diverse concerts and lectures.

"A Bite of China" 2024 program and the "Spring Festival Gala" in London's Chinatown add to the rich tapestry of events.

This festival extravaganza extends beyond London, reaching Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Jersey, Manchester, Sheffield, and more, encompassing a spectrum of activities, from traditional performances to cultural exhibitions, concerts, flash mobs, and culinary events.

The launch of the UK “Happy Chinese New Year" project marked a significant moment, celebrated recently at the Cultural Office of the Chinese Embassy in the UK. Attended by representatives from over 20 local organizations, including the Science Museum, Burlington Arcade, London Chinatown Business Association, Jersey City Government, and more, the event captured the essence of the Chinese New Year's growing international influence.

Zhao Fei, the minister of China's Embassy in the UK, highlighted the festival's role in fostering cultural exchanges between China and the UK. The festival, themed around "4H : Hope, Home, Harmony, Health," has garnered acclaim, deepening mutual understanding between the Chinese and British communities.

Guangdong Puning Yingge dance is scheduled to perform at Burlington Arcade on Feb 10th, 2024 in London. Photo: Courtesy of Burlington Arcade

The festival actively promotes respect for cultural diversity, common human values, cultural heritage, and innovation. Li Liyan, minister counselor for cultural affairs at China's Embassy in the UK, outlined three key aspects of the “Happy Chinese New Year”project: heightened enthusiasm for cultural exchange, increased local initiatives in organizing Spring Festival celebrations, and enhanced elements of China-UK cultural exchange and mutual learning.

As the festival unfolds, it promises to be a captivating showcase of cultural richness, fostering connections between nations and leaving an indelible mark on the multicultural landscape of the United Kingdom.