Date: 15 February – 3 March 2026
Celebrate the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) with Dunedin’s signature cultural festival. Two weeks of performances, workshops, art, and community events bring tradition, creativity, and fun right into the city.
What’s On
- Stage Performances & Traditional Displays
Lion and dragon dances, contemporary Chinese music and dance, and roaming performances across the city. - Workshops & Hands-On Experiences
Try dumpling-making, calligraphy, lantern crafting, tai chi, and traditional tea ceremonies. - Art Installations & Light Activations
Wander through red lanterns, wishing trees, and interactive public artworks. - Retail & Hospitality Collaborations
Enjoy themed menus, promotions, and citywide decorations celebrating Chinese culture.
Key Festival Dates
Festival Launch – Sunday 15 February
Kick things off with live performances and a citywide celebration ahead of Chinese New Year.
Chinese New Year Celebration – Saturday 21 February
Lan Yuan Chinese Garden host performances, family activities, food stalls, and fireworks.
Lantern Festival & Closing – Sunday 1 March
A peaceful, family-friendly finale with lantern workshops, tea ceremonies, and dumpling tastings.
Festival Highlights
- Stage and roaming performances
- Interactive workshops for all ages
- Cultural exhibitions, storytelling, and tea tastings
- Citywide art and installations
Get Involved
The festival is a citywide celebration - there are many ways to take part:
- Perform on stage or as a roaming act.
- Deliver workshops or cultural demonstrations.
- Trade at food or craft stalls.
- Host events at your venue.
- Organise citywide art or cultural activations.
Support is available: Guidance, promotional tools, and the festival logo to help showcase your participation.
Interested? Read our Expression of interest document and submit your proposal.
Submit your proposalExpression of interest
Expression of interest Simplified Chinese
Expression of interest Traditional Chinese
Why Participate
- Be part of a high-profile Dunedin cultural festival.
- Reach a broad, multicultural audience.
- Feature in citywide promotions.
- Connect with the community and other creative partners.
- Contribute to a vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic city.
Join the Celebration
Whether attending, performing, trading, or supporting, the Dunedin Chinese Cultural Festival 2026 is your chance to celebrate culture, creativity, and community in the heart of the city.
Contact: events@dcc.govt.nz