Multi-cultural event to welcome Lunar New Year

One of the city’s largest multi-cultural celebrations kicks off this Saturday as Southport’s Chinatown welcomes the Year of the Pig.

In Chinese culture, pigs are seen as a symbol of wealth and a chance to bring good fortune in life.

“That sums up where our city is right now. We are enjoying good fortune from a strong economy, we are a safe community and we embrace our multi-cultural identity,’’ said Mayor Tom Tate.

“This will be one of the best years in our city’s history as we also celebrate our 60th birthday.’’

The fifth annual Gold Coast Lunar New Year festivities feature Asian street food markets, children’s activities, a pop-up laneway bar, film screenings, live music and entertainment as well as a fireworks display. 

Cultural entertainment includes lion dancers, acrobats, stilt walkers, Japanese drumming and Filipino bamboo dancing.  

Mayor Tate said Chinatown was integral in Southport’s revitalisation.

“We are constantly looking at ways to boost the Southport CBD,’’ he said.

“As our CBD grows, so does its reputation. We are seeing Southport emerge as a vibrant live-music precinct as well as a hub for culture, food, retail and events. I urge everyone to visit Chinatown for the Lunar New Year event (9 February).’’

Information:

• Time: 4-9pm on 9 February

Ride your bike and receive a free bike maintenance check, or catch the G: Link to Southport station. 

Parking is at:

- Mal Burke car park – corner Hinze and Davenport streets

- Athol Patterson car park – near Southport Library

- Carey Park carpark – Broadwater Parklands

Gold Coast Chinatown is at Young and Davenport streets, Southport. 

For information visit: cityofgoldcoast.com.au/chinatown

Note: Bottled water will not be sold at the event (patrons encouraged to bring reusable bottles).