Thousands flock to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit

The Year of Rabbit has finally hit Melbourne with tens of thousands pouring onto the streets of Melbourne’s Chinatown to celebrate the Lunar New Year. 

After a three-year hiatus, Sunday, January 22 saw Russell and Little Bourke streets returned to their rightful identity as the heart of festivity and celebration for Melbourne’s Chinese community.

The Zodiac sign of the Rabbit is said to be a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity in Chinese culture, a sentiment evidently shared across the hordes of festivalgoers making most of the fantastic weather, captivating cultural and street performances and mouth-watering food. 

“The day went better than expected, we were blown away by attendance, and from speaking with stakeholders, traders and the community, they were incredibly happy with the turnout and great event for the whole family,” Melbourne Chinatown Association president JJ Heng said. 

“To deliver something for the community they enjoy and to hear from parents how well received our teachings of Chinese and Asian culture was for children; that is invaluable for us.” •

Photos: Ajay Viswanath