Darwin Chinese New Year festival to be held on Saturday, March 1
Locals can expect dazzling performances, mouth-watering eats, and hands-on cultural experiences at Darwin’s Chinese New Year celebration this weekend. Find out more.
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Darwin’s biggest Chinese New Year bash is back this Saturday – and it’s promised to be bigger, brighter, and even more delicious.
On March 1, the Darwin Chung Wah Society will host the Chinese New Year Festival at the Territory Netball Stadium in Marrara.
A jam-packed day of food, culture, and entertainment from 11am to 7pm in the airconditioned premises is promised, with free entry for all.
President of the Chung Wah Society Committee Roland Chin said the event was “truly family-focused”.
“It’s an enjoyable day … a safe venue where families can celebrate together.”
This year, the festival welcomes the Year of the Snake – a symbol of wisdom, transformation, and resilience.
Expect a street market-style experience, complete with vibrant parades, mesmerising lion and dragon dances, and performances by the Chung Wah Society Darwin Dance Troupe.
“We have a very energetic group of Lion dance performers who love what they are doing,” President Chin said.
Kids can get hands-on with lantern crafting and face painting, while sports lovers can try their hand at table tennis, and adults can test their Mahjong skills.
For the foodies, Darwin chef Yogi will take the stage for a live cooking demonstration, sharing the secrets of Chinese cuisine.
Festival-goers can also indulge in an array of authentic Asian food stalls.
“One big favourite for the locals is the Chung Wah Sartee stall,” Mr Chin said.
“The stall goes back to the Darwin Show … back in 1965.”
The event will be strictly alcohol-free.
“We won’t be serving alcohol as we’re focusing on being family-friendly,” Mr Chin said.
The event is an extension of goodwill to the community, a tradition that runs deep in the society’s history.
“This came about as regularly Chung Wah and the Lion team go out and bless the businesses and the residents,” Mr Chin said.
“It is custom for us to say ‘Kung Hei Fat Choi,’ which basically means wishing people prosperity.”
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