Lunar New Year
17
Feb
01
Mar
Celebrate the Year of the Horse

Lunar New Year

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with thrilling jet pack shows, lion dances, dragon boat races and Lunar feasts.
When
Tuesday,
17 Feb 2026
Sunday,
01 Mar 2026

Gallop into fun at Darling Harbour’s Lunar New Year celebrations.​

Witness mind-blowing Lunar New Year Jet Pack shows soaring over Cockle Bay, cheer on teams in the fan-favourite dragon boat races, and be captivated by vibrant lion dance performances. 

Explore the tranquil Chinese Garden of Friendship, where you can enjoy delightful kids' crafts, fascinating Chinese zodiac readings, tea ceremonies, soothing live music and so much more. Plus, don't miss the exclusive Twilight Garden Party for a unique nighttime celebration.​

Plus, gather your loved ones for a cozy dinner or a bustling banquet – Darling Harbour boasts over 150 dining options to suit every taste and budget.​

Our Top Picks
    
SAT 21 FEB
Jetpack Performances
Witness high-flying lion dancers, a thrilling display of jet-propelled stunts above the water and a guest appearance by this year’s zodiac: the fire horse.
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SAT 28 FEB & SUN 1 MAR
Dragon Boat Races
Dragon Boat Races will take on Cockle Bay, featuring ornately decorated 12-metre-long dragon-themed boats. This races showcases teamwork and celebrates the cultural heritage of many Sydneysiders, with over 3,000 paddlers coming to battle it out to the finish line. 
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SATURDAYS DURING FEB
Fireworks
Watch the Sydney sky above Darling Harbour come to life during Lunar New Year, with spectacular firework displays every Saturday during February.
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SUN 22 FEB
Mahjong Garden
Step into the Mahjong Garden and immerse yourself in the ancient game of skill and luck, guided by Mahjong master Eric Wa.
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SAT 21 & SUN 22 FEB
Community Performances
From authentic Chinese folk dance to K-pop, Sydney’s rich cultural diversity will be on display, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the spirit of the Lunar New Year in the local community.
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Tues 17, Sat 21 & Sun 22
Lion Dancing
Catch a traditional Lion Dance roaming around Darling Harbour, bringing good luck and fortune.
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Celebrations at the Chinese Garden of Friendship

There's no better place to ring in the Year of the Snake than at the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Enjoy delightful kids' crafts, fascinating Chinese zodiac readings, and soothing live music. ​Don't miss the exclusive Twilight Garden Party for a unique nighttime celebration.

Best Lunar Eats
Best dumplings in Darling Harbour

Is there anything more delicious than dumplings? We’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Darling Harbour serving dumplings so you can taste them all this Lunar New Year! 

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Best noodles in Darling Harbour
Noodles are the ultimate comfort food. Whether we’re slurping down a bowl of steaming hot Vietnamese pho in a hearty bone broth, or a spicy Indonesian mi goreng - there’s no better way we’d rather celebrate the lunar new year. To help you find a little comfort and a lot of delicious food, we tracked down the best restaurants in Darling Harbour serving noodles.
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Best sweet treats in Darling Harbour

This lunar new year you deserve to treat yourself and the best way to do that is definitely with dessert. From pancakes slathered in hot peanut butter and gooey maple syrup, to technicolour bubble tea bursting with weird and wonderful flavours, you can find it all in Darling Harbour.

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For seafood lovers

There’s something about seafood that’s a little luxurious. Whether you’re feasting on pippies slathered in chilli sauce, or dining on fresh lobster dripping with garlic butter, there’s nothing quite like a seafood spread at these best seafood restaurants in Dalring Harbout to celebrate the Lunar New Year. 

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One Dining

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at One Dining, savouring modern Chinese flavours amidst the tranquility of the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

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Vogue Cafe
Seafood is taking centre-stage this Lunar New Year at Vogue Cafe with exclusive a la carte and tasting menus crafted to honour the spirit of abundance, prosperity and renewal. 
See the menu
Where to go for drinks in Darling Harbour

What’s a celebration without a cold refreshment or two? Luckily Darling Harbour is home to several of Sydney’s best bars and is one of the best places in the city to eat, drink and play.

See where to go
Not your average red pocket
Chinese Garden Annual Pass
Know someone who loves spending time at the Chinese Garden of Friendship? Get them an annual membership where they'll unlock unlimited visits for a year, complimentary parking passes and exclusive workshops events and tours.
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ICC Concert Tickets
Enjoy a huge lineup of events coming up at the ICC Sydney and TikTok Entertainment Centre featuring world-class performers.
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Maritime Museum Annual Membership
The Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour is your gateway to Australia's maritime past. Climb aboard historic ships, explore fascinating exhibits, and create unforgettable memories.
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Multi-attractions annual passes
For those who love nature and unique experiences, a multi-attraction annual pass to visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and Madame Tussauds would make the perfect gift.
Find out more
Looking for more things to do this Lunar New Year? Visit The Rocks and Barangaroo for some delicious Asian eats and festive treats.