A kaleidoscope of celebrations for Melbourne’s 2016 Chinese New Year Festival commence at Federation Square at 10:30am on the 6th of February.

These events include a range of cultural workshops such as; the unique paper tear arts demonstration and workshop; Chinese Chess workshop, a Chinese lady’s dress Qi Pao’s cloth button making workshop, children’s Chinese language activities; a Chinese painting and calligraphy demonstration and a Chinese zither workshop for music lovers.

In addition, multicultural performances from community groups and artists will be held over 2 days and 2 nights. There will also be an array of Chinese and Asian food stalls along the square plaza on the corner of Swanston and Flinders St selling Si Chun spicy food, Beijing dumplings, lamb skewers, spring rolls, bamboo leaf rice wraps and more.

The ‘count-down’ for Chinese New Year will be held on the night of the 7th of February with the big screen televising celebrations unfolding overseas. There will also be live events to enjoy, such as four dance competitions including hip-hop, Latin, the popular Chinese Square Dance; and the line dance.

Colourful light installations of various designs and shapes will also be in Federation Square to mark the culture and heritage of Chinese New Year.