Lunar New Year
On February 10, we will head into the year of the dragon, marking the beginning of a new year!
Gong xi fa cai, or Happy New Year!
Year of the Dragon
In various Asian countries, each lunar year is related to an animal sign according to a 12-year cycle. The dragon ranks 5th in the zodiac and is a symbol of pride and the moon. Each year links an animal and an element together. As this year’s element is wood, 2024 is the year of the Wood Dragon.
If the dragon is your birth sign, you'll be happy to hear that according to Chinese astrology, people born in the year of the dragon can be wise, generous, talented, charismatic and courageous leaders. Lucky things for people born in the year of the dragon include the colours blue and purple, and the numbers 6 and 8.
Celebrate Lunar New Year in the Netherlands
Every year, Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year is celebrated in certain locations in the Netherlands. Traditional dragon dances, fireworks and decorations will pop up in areas where many Chinese people gather.
Celebrations in Rotterdam
[February 10-22] Holland Amerikaplein, Markthal, Rotterdam Centraal
Chinese New Year in Rotterdam will be an extended celebration, lasting a grand two weeks, and featuring various events. The city centre will be the stage for a traditional dragon dance, as well as lion dances and fireworks. There will also be special activities throughout the city for the whole week.
Celebrations in Amsterdam
[February 10] Zeedijk, Nieuwmarkt, Chinatown, Dam Square
The Chinese New Year is usually a time for people to visit the temple. You can visit the Buddhist temple Fo Guang Shan He Hua at the Zeedijk in Amsterdam. Festivities in Amsterdam include a fireworks show, dragon dances and lots of Asian food!
Celebrations in The Hague
[February 24] Chinatown, City Hall
The Hague will have many celebrations both in the local Chinatown and in the inner city. The area outside of the City Hall will be the stage for the ritual colouring in of the lions’ eyes. There will be fireworks and dragon dances at the Spui and performances by Chinese and Dutch artists in the Atrium. There will also be an Asian market.
A little taste of China in the Netherlands
Want to celebrate the Chinese New Year without travelling abroad? Check out the celebrations in Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam! Please note: Although the official Chinese New Year 2024 will be on February 10, not all celebrations will take place on this specific date, so check the aforementioned links for the most up-to-date information.