Your ultimate guide to London’s Lunar New Year Parade: Dates, route, and what to expect
London is gearing up for its annual Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations, marking the Year of the Snake with a spectacular parade, lively performances, and vibrant street displays.
Expect crazy neon signs lighting up the streets as the city comes alive with cultural festivities. Our guide covers all the essential details, from the parade route to family-friendly activities and where to catch the best performances. Don't miss out on the biggest celebration of the year!
Lunar New Year is just around the corner, and the city is getting ready to welcome the new year and the first new moon of the lunar calendar. 2025 is the Year of the Snake, a symbol of transformation, renewal, and spiritual growth. Known for shedding their skin, snakes remind us to let go of the old and embrace the new definitely a reason to celebrate, don’t you think?
The capital city pulls out all the stops to celebrate, with plenty of exciting events. But one of the best ways to kick off the new year is by attending the Chinese Lunar New Year parade. Here’s everything we know about this year’s parade so far.
When is the parade?
The parade will be held on Sunday, February 2, four days after Lunar New Year. It’s being organised by the London Chinatown Chinese Association.
Where will it be?
The parade will take place in the West End, starting near Trafalgar Square, winding down Shaftesbury Avenue, and finishing near Chinatown.
What is the route of the parade?
The parade will begin at 10am, just east of Trafalgar Square. It will move up Charing Cross Road, pass Leicester Square Station, turn left onto Shaftesbury Avenue, and finish near Wardour Street around 11:45am.
More than 50 teams will join the parade, bringing Europe’s biggest display of Chinese lions and dragons to the streets, along with vibrant floats, lively costumes, and thrilling performances.
What else is happening?
After the parade, stick around as Chinatown keeps the party going with lion dances, festive stalls, and many restaurants staying open late to serve celebratory dishes, big feasts, and special treats. Look out for crazy neon signs lighting up the streets to guide you to the action!
Trafalgar Square will have the main stage, where you can enjoy special performances, along with community stands, food stalls, and product stalls. Near Chinatown, there will be family activities with workshops and cultural fun like arts and crafts, calligraphy, Chinese music, and the chance to try on traditional outfits
How do I get there?
The nearest stations are Leicester Square, which takes you right into the heart of Chinatown, and Charing Cross, where you’ll find the parade starting point and the celebrations at Trafalgar Square.
When will the 2025 London Chinese New Year parade start and end?
The parade will set off from Trafalgar Square around 10am and is expected to arrive in Chinatown around 11.45am.
In addition to the vibrant celebrations in Chinatown and Trafalgar Square, Soho will also be buzzing with excitement next weekend for the Chinese New Year festivities. As part of the Year of the Snake celebrations, this lively area will host a variety of activities, including traditional Chinese performances, cultural showcases, and street food stalls. Whether you’re into live music, dance performances, or arts and crafts, Soho will be the ultimate spot to soak in the festive spirit.
For families, there will be even more fun with hands-on workshops where you can learn about Chinese culture, try your hand at calligraphy, and engage in other creative activities. With the streets lit up and filled with music, Soho will be the place to celebrate alongside the main parade and other key events.