Melbourne comes alive during Lunar New Year, and this year, the celebrations promise to be extra special as we welcome in the Year of the Snake.
Here’s a guide to some of the best ways to experience the festivities.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the celebrations at the Melbourne Chinese New Year Festival
No Lunar New Year celebration is complete without a visit to Melbourne’s vibrant Chinatown. Wandering through the bustling streets at any point during the festivities is an excellent time, with shops brimming with Asian delights, and lots of delicious Chinese cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
On February 2, Chinatown is also hosting the city’s biggest Lunar New Year celebration! Witness the awe-inspiring Millennium Dragon Parade, be mesmerised by lion dances, and indulge in delicious Asian treats from bustling food stalls. There’ll also be live music, cultural performances. Check out all the details here.
Learn with hands-on experiences at Melbourne Museum
On February 1st, embark on a journey through Chinese culture at the Melbourne Museum. Participate in a scavenger hunt to learn about the Zodiac animals, be captivated by traditional dragon dances, and enjoy captivating storytelling and talks about the fascinating world of snakes.
While designed with the little ones in mind, the young at heart will definitely get a lot out of it! All the details of each activity are on their website.
Sip on some very special whisky from 23rd Street Distillery
Raise a glass to the New Year with a taste of something truly special. 23rd Street Distillery has unveiled its limited-edition Year of the Snake Whisky, a single malt crafted to celebrate the 2025 Lunar New Year.
This exquisite whisky, matured in 15-year-old Tawny casks and finished in charred oak, boasts a rich profile of toffee, dried fruits, and warm spice. With only 3,600 bottles available worldwide, it’s a rare and coveted addition to any whisky collection, especially once you see the beautifully designed package it comes in. It’s only available for a limited time, so get your hands on one here.
This is just a taste of what’s on offer in Melbourne during Lunar New Year. So get out there and explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene, indulge in delicious food, and create lasting memories!
