Chinese New Year in the Chinese Garden
A visit to the Chinese Garden of Friendship is one of the best things to do in Sydney this summer. Enjoy a unique Chinese New Year program of Chinese cultural events, including kids' crafts, fascinating Chinese zodiac readings, soothing live music and more. Plus don't miss the exclusive Twilight Garden Party for a unique nighttime celebration.
Entry to the Garden is just $12 for adults and $8 for children. Concession rates are also available.
The Program
Amidst glowing lanterns and lush nature you’ll get the chance to enjoy boisterous lion dances, creative workshops, zodiac readings and more.
Watch the fantastic frenzy of the traditional Chinese Lion Dance as part of the official opening of the Lunar New Year program in the Garden! Boisterous, colourful and interactive, the Lion Dance embraces the beauty, art, culture, traditions and history of China. With movements and gestures that closely mimic the emotion of the mystical animal, each dance is said to bring good luck and fortune.
It is traditional during the Chinese New Year to share red envelopes filled with lucky money, symbolising good wishes and luck for the year ahead. On Tuesday 17 and Saturday 21 February, each child visiting the Garden will leave with their very own red envelope containing a (chocolate) gold coin for good luck in the Year of the Horse. Arrive early to avoid missing out.
Sun 1 Mar, Chloe Chung and Paul Cordeiro - Bonded by their shared Singaporean-Australian heritage and a mutual love of music and dance, they create performances that celebrate connection, culture, and creativity.
Experience the art of the traditional tea ceremony with Topotea. From 2pm a master tea expert will guide you through the process of boiling, pouring, and washing tea leaves, followed by a tasting of various teas at 2.30pm. This experience offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and ritual of this ancient practice.
PRICE
- $30 (members), $40 non members for an 8 minure reading
- Booking required
Twilight Garden Party
FRI 20 FEB, 5-9PM
(Last entry at 8.30pm)
Embark on a nostalgic journey as the Chinese Garden of Friendship transforms into a twilight wonderland. Inspired by the golden era of classic Kung Fu films and traditional festive games, this one-night-only event blends heritage with contemporary flair for an unforgettable celebration.
Get creative with these fun workshops free with garden entry.
SAT 21 & 28 FEB
In this fun and interactive workshop, little creators will transform a simple recycled toilet paper roll into their very own miniature horse. Children will learn to build the horse step-by-step and then bring it to life with markers, stickers, wool, and more. With a bit of cutting, shaping, drawing, and pasting, kids will get a head start for a galloping start to the Year of the Horse!