Stubborn, loyal, supremely assured? You must have been born in the “Year of the Ox”. And whether you do or don’t have lucky money envelopes to collect (next Monday 26 January), you can take part in the epic city celebrations to welcome Chinese New Year.

Watch the spectacle of Dragon Boat Racing along Darling Harbour, or a film featured in the inaugural eight-day Sydney China Film Festival.

The Chinese New Year Twilight Parade promises a procession not seen before in Sydney; 2600 costumed dancers, musicians, martial artists and performers from Henan Province (home of The Yellow Emperor and Shaolin Temple).

It wouldn’t be a celebration without food, and copious amounts of it. Try a banquet, yum cha or tea appreciation workshop. Even better, adopt a Chinese family for home-to-home celebrations throughout the day.

Vibrant, fun and on a grand scale. Traditions for the keeping.

City of Sydney Chinese New Year Festival
23 January – 15 February 2009
Free and ticketed events across Sydney venues
Full program here