Chinese New Year in Brisbane
In 2009 Chinese New Year falls on the same day as Australia Day – 26 January – but the festivities will continue until 1 February around Brisbane.
2009 will be the Year of the Ox, which symbolises prosperity through fortitude and hard work. In other words, persevere and work hard and steadily. It’s not the year to be outrageous or impulsive, but hard work will be rewarded. (We hope!)
The Chinese phrase for celebrating Chinese New Year, “Guo Nian”, means “the passing of the beast”. In Chinese mythology, a Nian is a beast that lives under the sea or in the mountains. Once each spring, or around Chinese New Year, it comes out of hiding to attack people, especially children. Fortunately, the Nian is sensitive to loud noises and afraid of the colour red, so, to drive it away, the Chinese have traditions of decorating things in red, exploding firecrackers and performing a lion dance.
The official Chinese New Year festival will bring lots of colour, noise and excitement to Brisbane's Fortitude Valley. Make sure you catch a lion dance as you prepare for a year of reaping the rewards of your hard work.
Chinese New Year events
Welcome the Year of the Ox
See also
Chinatown is located in the heart of Brisbane's Fortitude Valley. It has much to offer locals and visitors alike - from quick Asian cuisine to fine dining, from shopping in designer boutiques to partying at the coolest bars and clubs. Check it out:
