Lunar New Year celebrations will return to the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens this year with an afternoon full of free family activities for the community to enjoy.
The event, to be held from 2 pm to 5 pm on Saturday 10 February, will also see the return of the delegation from the Bundaberg Region’s Sister City Nanning for the first time since 2019.
The group of 18 primary school students will be proudly showcasing their talents at the event through song and dance performances for the community to enjoy.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the delegation’s visit would mark the 26th anniversary of the Nanning-Bundaberg Sister City relationship.
“It is wonderful to once again be welcoming our Nanning Sister City delegation to the region and they are really excited to engage in a meaningful cultural exchange with community members,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“Our Sister City relationship has gone from strength to strength over the many years of collaboration, fostering strong ties and positive economic, social and educational outcomes.
“So much so that in 2019 this agreement was recognised and won a major Sister Cities Award for Best Overall Sister City Program.”
Year of the Dragon
This year’s Lunar New Year celebration will feature community favourites as well as new and exciting events to mark the Year of the Dragon.
These include dragon dances, a zodiac trail and the Bundaberg State High School Taiko drummers as well as art and craft activities and food stalls.
There will also be a free pop-up Japanese basketry knot workshop, where children will be guided in using natural fibres to wrap their own rock in ornamental knots, as well as a new traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony event where locals can book to experience the preparation, receival and tasting of two traditional teas.
Council Arts, Culture and Events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said residents should get ready for a stellar Lunar New Year line up.
“This event has always been a community favourite and we’re excited to have it back again this year at our beautiful Botanic Gardens,” Cr Learmonth said.
“This year, in the Year of the Dragon, there will be plenty of themed activities for the whole family to enjoy and experience the rich culture and history of Lunar New Year.”
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Lunar New Year celebration is made possible with support from the State Government's Celebrating Multicultural Queensland funding round.
Lunar New Year
When: Saturday 10 February, 2 – 5 pm
Where: Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, near the Chinese Gardens
Cost: Free, more information here.
Chinese Tea Ceremony
When: Saturday 10 February
Where: Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, near Fairymead House
Cost: Free, bookings required here.
