London's Chinese New Year Parade: Route, times and theme

London celebrations are often the biggest for the New Year outside of Asia with hundreds of thousands descending to the West End for the day.

The Chinese New Year parade brings colour, impressive stage performances, yummy traditional Chinese food and more.

If you're heading down to celebrate the Chinese New Year, this is all you need to know from the parade route to how to wish someone a happy new year.

When is the Chinese New Year Parade in London?

The Chinese New Year Parade will take place in London on Sunday, February 11.

However, Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year will take place on Saturday, February 10.

The parade is organised by the London Chinatown Chinese Association (LCCA).

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What is the route of the Chinese New Year Parade in London?

The annual parade will start on the corner of Trafalgar Square next to Charing Cross station before moving up Charing Cross Road towards Shaftesbury Avenue and stopping at the bottom of Wardour Street.

The Chinese New Year Parade will then go through Chinatown and travel around Gerrard Street, Macclesfield Street, part of Wardour Street, Leicester Street, Leicester Place and Lisle Street before ending in Trafalgar Square.

What events will be at Trafalgar Square for the Chinese New Year?

The main event in Trafalgar Square will kick off at 12pm and will see a traditional dragon and flying lion dance around the square.

Along with amazing stage performances from China until 5pm which include opera, acrobatics, ancient magic and even martial arts.

There will be plenty of food to enjoy with street food dishes all around the square from the Far East.

See What's On. (Image: Newsquest)

How to wish someone Happy Chinese New Year

If you're heading to the parade and want to know how to wish someone a happy new year, you can say either of the two sayings:

• "Xin Nian Kuai Le" (Happy New Year in Mandarin)
• "Sun Nin Faai Lok" (in Cantonese)

What is the meaning of Year of the Dragon in 2024?

Known as the most famous of the Chinese Zodiac animals, the Dragon is often strong and independent and is a great leader yet they will seek support and reassurance from others.