We are thrilled to be celebrating Lunar New Year in Liverpool and we’re excited to present several specially commissioned new pieces of work created by arts and cultural organisations in the city to welcome the Year of the Dragon.
These pieces will bring a contemporary element to the traditional events which we hope will excite, delight and inspire.
From Friday 9 to Sunday 11 February, the traditional Chinese story of the Boy and the Pearl will come to life as it’s projected on the Bombed Out Church. Taking place from 5.30pm-9pm each night, the projections will transform the building with captivating animation and a newly composed soundscape. The show, which lasts for ten minutes, will run on a loop each evening. Adding to the atmosphere and around the church grounds will be a 7ft high driftwood dragon sculpture, the focal point in the Wood Dragon Garden designed by artist Judith Herring, local schools and community groups.
Continuing the night-time theatrics will be the Dragon and the Pearl at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, which will see a 22-metre, illuminated fire-breathing dragon floating through the dock system alongside exciting fiery thrill-seekers Bring The Fire and their dance and martial arts. All taking place from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 February between 5.30pm-9pm.
The Lunar New Year celebrations will culminate with a day of free fun for all the family on Sunday 11 February. From 11am until 5pm Chinatown will once again play host to a programme of live performances in Great George Square, the Chinese Dragon, Unicorn and Lion procession, food stalls, art workshops with make and do activities as well as street theatre, storytelling and the popular funfair.
Alongside our commissioned pieces, many of our partners across the city region are hosting their own fantastic Lunar New Year events and activities. Find out what’s going on below.
This event has been organised by Liverpool City Council’s Culture Liverpool team in partnership with the Liverpool Chinese Business Association and support from Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, Liverpool ONE, Arts Council England, Canal & River Trust, Liverpool BID Company and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
