Lanterns, Lions, and the Leap of the Horse: Chinese Lunar New Year 2026

From the thunderous drums of the Lion Dance at Meadowhall to the serene beauty of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, our city was alive with the spirit of the Horse.

Two girls dressed in traditional Chinese dress

Now that the lanterns have been lit and the lions have finished their dances, the echoes of the drums are still ringing in our ears, in the best way possible. We wanted to take a moment to send a huge thank you to everyone who joined us for our Chinese New Year celebrations.

This wasn't just a series of events; it was a city-wide takeover. It was an incredible week filled with community spirit, vibrant culture, and unforgettable performances across Sheffield. Whether you were learning a new craft, holding your breath during a world class acrobatic feat, or simply soaking in the atmosphere at a concert, your presence made the festivities truly special.

Highlights from the Week

We packed a lot into seven days! Here is a look back at what we achieved together:

  • Creative Spirits: Our Lantern Making Workshops at Meadowhall were a hit with families. Seeing children (and adults!) engage with the traditional Chinese dressing station and walk away with unique, handmade creations was a personal highlight.

people gathered around a table making lanterns
  • Spectacular Stages: The talent on display was truly world-class. From the high-energy CSSA Gala to the stunningly choreographed Sheffield Lunar Chinese New Year Gala, the performances left us all in awe.

Performers on stage
  • Musical Mastery: The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra provided an unforgettable evening. They brought the beautiful complexity of traditional music to our city, proving that art is a universal language that transcends borders.

Orchestra performing
  • Tradition in Motion: The Dragon Dance at Meadowhall brought incredible energy (and a lot of smiles!) to shoppers and spectators alike. There’s nothing quite like the sight of the dragon weaving through the crowds to bring a sense of luck and renewal.

CI- Dragon Dance
  • Cultural Roots: We were honoured to support the Changing Seasons exhibition at Western Park Museum. It was a poignant and vital highlight, showcasing the resilience and stories of Sheffield’s ESEA community.

Ribbon cutting at the exhibition
  • Hands-on Heritage: Our stalls at Peace Gardens and Orchard Square stayed busy all weekend. From the delicate art of calligraphy to interactive craft sessions, it was wonderful to see people of all ages getting "stuck in" to heritage.

a team picture of the University of Sheffield Confucius Institute

More Than Just a Celebration

Events like these remind us of the vibrant diversity that makes our community so strong. It’s about more than just a calendar date; it’s about sharing space, learning from our neighbours, and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that call Sheffield home.

The Year of the Horse is said to bring energy, brightness, and warm-heartedness. Looking back at the week we’ve shared, it’s clear those qualities are already present in abundance in our city.

Share Your Memories

We’d love to see the celebration through your eyes! If you captured any photos of the dragon weaving through the crowds or videos of the gala performances, please share them with us on social media using our official hashtag. Your perspective helps us keep the magic of the week alive.

Wishing you all a prosperous, healthy, and happy Year of the Horse. May we all run toward our goals with the strength and grace this year represents!