Chinese New Year
Sydney Morning Herald
Thursday January 31, 2008
Catch the Year of the Rat with this action-packed agenda, writes Joel Meares.
Sydney's Chinese New Year celebrations are the world's largest outside Asia and in 2008, they are going to be bigger than ever. Here are some of the highlights. Kung hei fat choy! (Happy New Year!)Chinatown Markets This temporary marketplace is lined with 60 food and gift stalls and the odd fortune teller. There's a stage with performers ranging from violinists to DJs. Chinese New Year is launched here on February 1, from 7pm. Markets continue February 2-3, 11am-10pm. Belmore Park, opposite Central Station, off Eddy Avenue.Chinese New Year Parade Tigers and dragons will snake through the streets, along with musicians, acrobats and floats. From Park Street to Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour. February 10, 11am-12.30pm. Dragon Boat Races More than 2000 rowers will splash across Darling Harbour. Watch from the sidelines or from the adjacent food and gift market. February 16-17, 8am-5pm. Billy Kwong Banquet This chic Chinese diner offers a delicious 10-course, organic banquet, with biodynamic wines by Vanya Cullen. February 4, 6.30pm for 7pm. $180 a person (includes food and beverages). Billy Kwong Restaurant, 3/355 Crown Street, Surry Hills. Bookings: 9332 3300.High Tea And Appreciation Learn which leaves tickle your tastebuds and sample white, black and green teas, rich amber oolongs and herbal infusions. February 16-17 and 23-24, midday and 4.30pm. $35. Zensation Tea House, 656 Bourke Street, Redfern. Bookings: 9319 2788. Chinese New Year Festival A festival featuring dancing dragons, opera singers, kung-fu demonstrations and 30 food and art stalls will light up Chatswood. February 16, 9am-5pm. Chatswood Mall, Victoria Avenue.
© 2008 Sydney Morning Herald
