Celebrate the 2024 Lunar New Year in the city at the Ellen Melville Centre and Auckland Central City Library with a full day of performances, activities and experiences for the whole family to enjoy.

The Ellen Melville Centre and Freyberg Square will be alive with live music and cultural performances, craft activities, family games and delicious food stalls to sample. Collect tokens from the many demonstrations and activities for a celebratory gift to take home.


Morning Performances | 11:30am–12:30PM | Freyberg Square
Immerse yourself and be amazed by the incredible skills and mesmerising performances of Wushu or Kung Fu, Korean Percussion, Beijing Opera and cultural dances.

Afternoon Performances | 1:15–2:15pm | Freyberg Square
Experience the exquisite music and the supreme skills of the New Zealand Chinese Silk Road Band and captivating Chinese cultural dances by talented local dance troupes.

Days Activities | 11am - 4pm

  • Food Stalls
  • Traditional Chinese Costume Exhibition
  • Tea Ceremony and English Lantern Riddles
  • Ancient Folk Art Paper cutting
  • Chinese Calligraphy
  • Traditional Lunar New Year games for all ages
  • Craft Stalls
  • Face painting and more

Park for $2 per hour, to a maximum of $10 on evenings and weekends at the Victoria St car park. Find out more.

Last updated: 29 January 2024