Melbourne celebrates Year of the Snake

Melburnians took to the streets in February to celebrate the annual Chinese Lunar New Year festival in the Chinatown precinct.

Hosted by the Melbourne Chinatown Business Association, thousands of people filled the streets of Melbourne on February 2 to celebrate the Year of the Snake, which in Chinese astrology, represents transformation, renewal, and spiritual growth.

Festivities included the long-standing Millennium Dragon Parade, immersive cultural performances, and a spread of authentic Asian culinary delights.

“Melbourne wouldn’t be what it is today without its Chinese heritage, and our ongoing modern, vibrant Chinese community,” Lord Mayor Nick Reece said.

Melbourne’s Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in the Western world, established in the 1850s off the back of the Victorian gold rush era, and now, more than 20 per cent of Melbourne residents have Chinese ancestry.

The council’s City Economy and Business portfolio lead Cr Kevin Louey said, “Melbourne is home to a vibrant Chinese community with a longstanding heritage in our city, and we’re proud to celebrate alongside them as we ring in the Year of the Snake.”

The event was led by the Melbourne Chinatown Business Association (MCBA), which the City of Melbourne supported with a $90,000 injection through its Business Precinct Program.

“The Year of the Snake brings prosperity and wealth, and it’s symbolic that this year’s festival fell on the fifth day of the lunar new year – the traditional time to honour the god of wealth,” MCBA president Christina Zhao said.

“The activities were endless – from a new beer garden in the theatre district to a family entertainment area featuring toy-making workshops, face painting and Hanfu costume dress-ups."   

Meanwhile, delivering on a key 2022 election commitment, the state government has invested $400,000 over four years to ensure this Lunar New Year event continues.

“The Labor Government is honoured to support Lunar New Year celebrations throughout our state, recognising it as a deeply meaningful occasion for many Victorians and a vibrant display of our cultural diversity,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.