The Joyous Celebration of the Lunar New Year in Sunderland: Culture, Community, and Festivity Await

This coming Sunday, Sunderland is set to host an exhilarating celebration for the Lunar New Year, welcoming the Year of the Horse with vibrant festivities that promise to bring the community together. Following spectacular celebrations in Newcastle and Durham, Sunderland's event aims to be a fitting finale to the region's festivities, offering a culmination of culture and joy.

A Feast for the Senses

Scheduled from 11 am to 3 pm around Sunniside Gardens, the festivities will feature traditional lion and dragon dances, alongside a range of engaging entertainment that includes live performances, stilt walkers, and even a tribute to the popular Netflix series, K-Pop Demon Hunters. This diverse lineup ensures that there is something for all ages and tastes, making the event a family-friendly attraction.

Exploring Asian Culture

Attendees will be able to enjoy authentic flavors of Asian cuisine, with countless food stalls offering delicious treats. Alongside the culinary delights, the event also promises artistic engagement through free craft sessions, including origami, calligraphy, and dragon puppet-making. These activities allow community members to immerse themselves in the rich traditions associated with the Lunar New Year, fostering a deeper understanding of Asian cultures.

Community Spirit Shines Bright

Roberta Redecke, head of business services at Sunderland’s BIDs, emphasizes the significance of inclusivity in these celebrations, stating, "Sunderland is such a welcoming city, and we know from experience how much everyone likes to come along and learn about other cultures." The anticipation of seeing different communities come together to share in the festivities highlights the spirit of unity that events like these foster.

Ian Wong, owner of Asiana restaurant and key consultant for the celebrations, further expressed his delight in the community's participation, noting, "It’s always a real pleasure to be involved. It is lovely seeing people from different cultures celebrate together.”

The activities are generously part-funded by the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, ensuring that the celebrations continue to grow and enrich the local culture.

Sunderland's Lunar New Year celebration not only marks the arrival of a new year but also serves as a vibrant reminder of the community's commitment to honoring diversity and inclusivity through shared cultural experiences.