The ultimate kids day out, China-style!

London’s readying itself for the riot of colour and sound that arrives this Sunday 18^th February as part of the incredible Chinese New Year celebrations! An extraordinary spectacle, the gigantic street party will take over London’s West End and Chinatown. From immersive activities to costumes and games, there’s plenty to thrill and delight your kids. Here’s our unmissable highlights of family things to do at Chinese New Year when celebrating the Year of the Dog in London.

The Chinese New Year Parade

Don’t miss the big kick-off at 10am in Charing Cross Road as the Chinese New Year Parade makes its journey through Chinatown. Your children will be in awe of the ornately decorated floats and lively dragon dances snaking their way through the buzzing crowds.

Chinese calligraphy

Big kids will love trying their hand at the ancient Chinese art of calligraphy at the family and kids zone in Leicester Square. Using a traditional brush and ink they can make their mark on paper and learn new calligraphy techniques.

Get dressed up!

One of the most fun things for children at London’s Chinese New Year celebrations has to be dressing up. Your kids can try on traditional Chinese costumes over in Leicester Square’s family and kids zone and feel truly part of the action.

Martial arts madness

Budding Bruce Lees can get their kicks by watching exhilarating taekwondo demonstrations at the martial arts and culture zone on Shaftesbury Avenue. Kapow!

Snap a selfie with a zodiac animal

Wander around Chinatown and it’s likely your family will bump into one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. As it’s the Year of the Dog, see if your children can make a new canine companion and snap a selfie with them!

Theatre extraordinaire with Tales of the Shed

Your children will adore the thrills and spills of Chickenshed Theatre’s Tales of the Shed performances. Brimming with puppets, colourful characters and plenty of silly songs to boot, the interactive play encourages your kids to get involved and make plenty of noise too!

Pyrotechnic spectacular

Don’t miss the grand closing finale at 5.30pm where you can witness a dazzling display of pyrotechnics illuminating Trafalgar Square. It’s the perfect way to round up your family’s day at the Chinese New Year celebrations in London.