For 2024, Lunar New Year kicked off on Saturday, February 10th. The start of the new year is decided by the traditional agricultural calendar, in which a new moon indicates the start of a new month. While celebrations differ between communities, with festivities sometimes lasting up to 15 days, the occasion generally marks a fresh start for all.

This year, people are embracing the Year of the Dragon. Within Chinese mythology, people born under the dragon are said to be strong and powerful, since it is thought to be one of the most special years. Not only is the dragon the only mythical creature out of the twelve zodiac animals, but it also plays a prominent role within Chinese culture, generally considered to be respected and auspicious.

Heading up the celebrations in Oxford is the Oxfordshire Chinese Community & Advice Centre (OCCAC). On February 18th, the Centre’s annual celebration will return, having been running since 1992. The OCCAC is set to offer an extensive programme for the whole family, helping those celebrating to connect with Chinese culture and welcome the new year; there will be workshops and cultural performances.

The OCCAC estimates that roughly 1,000 people will attend the event, which is being held in Oxford Town Hall, St Aldates. Of the guests, a third are expected to be not to be Chinese.

Other Lunar New Year celebrations in Oxford include the Oxford Playhouse’s celebratory show, taking place on February 16th. The line up is set to feature an 18-metre-long dragon and a Kung Fu display; the show will be a family friendly way to enjoy the new year festivities.

Many Oxfordshire schools have also been engaging with the celebration, for example with cultural dishes and decorations. A student at Headington School said: ‘it was nice to see that the dining hall was decorated with lanterns.’

Next year, the Year of the Snake will be welcomed on January 29th.