CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF THE HORSE

Join us as we celebrate 2026  The Year of the Horse

Lunar New Year, also know as the Spring Festival, marks the end of winter and the beginning of long-awaited Spring.  Taking centre place in the festivities is the Chinese Zodiac.  Each year is represented by a different animal sign, with those born under it taking on the reputed personality traits in a repeating twelve-year cycle.

2026 is represented by the Horse.  According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of the Horse represents a time of hight energy, independence, and rapid progress.  Those born under this sign are often celebrated for their spirited nature, warmth, and ability to inspire others with their enthusiasm.

In traditional culture, the Horse symbolises success and 'galloping' toward one's goals, making it an auspicious year for starting new adventures

Explore the beautiful display under our A Frame will be in centre between the below dates:

Dates:  Saturday 14 February - Sunday 1 March

Location:  Under the A Frame, outside Number One Shoes

 

Lion Dance Performance

Celebrate Lunar New Year with the whole family! Enjoy a colourful Chinese lion dance as the lions parade through the centre, bringing fun, excitement, and festive energy for kids and grown‑ups alike.

Date:  Saturday 14 February

Time:  12.00pm

Location:  Performing through the centre, starting at the A Frame, outside Number One Shoes and finishing back in The Brickworks.

 

Same moon, different traditions:  Celebrating Lunar New Year together

Lunar New Year is a widely celebrated festival that marks the beginning of the new year on the lunisolar calendar.

While many people are familiar with the terms Chinese New Year or Spring Festival (Chūn Jié) in China, the celebration is shared across several cultures, each with its own name and traditions. In Vietnam it is known as Tết, and in South Korea it is called Seollal, reflecting unique customs in each country.

Chinese cultural symbols, such as red lanterns and zodiac animals, are strongly associated with the holiday due to the celebration originating in China thousands of years ago, however Lunar New Year is celebrated differently across Asia, with diverse foods, rituals, and family practices.

In New Zealand, communities embrace these traditions collectively, celebrating Lunar New Year in a way that honours the variety of cultural expressions that make up our shared festivities.