Compiled by Riverwood Migration Lawyers

Each Lunar New Year, Sydney hosts a wide range of celebrations supported by the NSW Government and local councils. Many of these events are free and open to the public, making them a great opportunity for international students, new migrants and families to experience the festive atmosphere and engage with the local community.

This guide is compiled based on information currently released by the City of Sydney and various NSW local councils, as well as past event arrangements. It is provided for general planning reference only. Final dates, times and event details are subject to official confirmation, and events may be changed or cancelled at short notice.

Riverwood Migration Lawyers has summarised selected Lunar New Year events in Sydney and surrounding areas for 2026 to help you plan ahead.

🎭 City & Chinatown Performances (CBD Area)

In recent years, Sydney’s CBD and Chinatown precinct have hosted a variety of multicultural performances during Lunar New Year, including stage shows, lion dances and street cultural events. These activities are usually concentrated around George Street, Hay Street and Harbour Street.

As some 2026 events are still being announced, the following reflects current public information and previous years’ arrangements:

• During Lunar New Year weekends, afternoons and evenings often feature performances by Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Vietnamese community groups. These are generally free to attend.
• Chinatown and surrounding streets (including Hay Street) typically host evening lion dances, drumming and roaming performances.
• Sections of George Street often display Lunar New Year–themed lighting, public art installations or digital artworks, with themes varying each year.

Please refer to the official Sydney Lunar Festival or City of Sydney program schedule for confirmed event names, dates, times and locations.

🏮 Lantern Displays & Public Art (Chinatown & CBD)

During the Lunar New Year period, Hay Street in Chinatown is usually decorated with zodiac-themed lanterns and public art installations, accessible both day and night. These displays are popular photo spots for students and families each year.

Details such as the number of installations, themes and featured artists for 2026 will be confirmed by the City of Sydney. We recommend checking the official event page before attending.

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📍 Darling Harbour

💦 Water Stunt / Jet Pack Lunar New Year Show

Time (based on previous years and current listings):

Expected on Saturday, 21 February, with one afternoon show (around 2:00 pm) and one evening show (around 8:45 pm). Fireworks are usually scheduled after the evening performance.

Location: Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour

Exact performance times may change depending on weather or organiser arrangements. Please check the Darling Harbour or City of Sydney official listings for confirmation.

🚣 Dragon Boat Festival

Dates: Saturday 28 February – Sunday 1 March 2026 (confirmed)

Location: Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour

One of the largest dragon boat festivals in the Southern Hemisphere, with thousands of competitors expected. The event typically includes commentary, stalls and spectator areas. Entry is free, though crowd control may apply in some zones.

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📍 Hurstville

🎊 Georges River Council Lunar New Year Festival 2026

Date: Saturday 21 February 2026, 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (officially announced)

Location: Hurstville Plaza and Forest Road

A major council-run Lunar New Year celebration featuring stage performances, food stalls, cultural and craft activities, and roaming entertainment. Suitable for families and groups.

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📍 Bankstown / Campsie (South-West Sydney)

Campsie Lantern Festival

Expected date: Saturday 28 February 2026, evening

(based on information from Canterbury-Bankstown Council and event platforms)

Event format: Lantern displays, street performances and food stalls. Final times and street closures will be confirmed by council announcements.

Bankstown Lunar New Year Celebration

Date: Saturday 7 February 2026, afternoon to evening

(current listings indicate approximately 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)

Event format: Stage performances, food stalls and market activities. Please refer to council or official event pages for exact location and updates.

📍 Other Common Lunar New Year Event Areas (Based on Past Years)

The following areas have historically hosted Lunar New Year celebrations organised by local councils or business associations. Some 2026 events are still being confirmed. We recommend monitoring council “Events” or “What’s On” pages for updates:

• Burwood: Often hosts Lunar Lanes events, street markets, lion dances and food stalls, usually in the evenings during mid to late February.
• Parramatta & Epping: Past years have included Lunar New Year night markets or community festivals in public squares or parks, typically on Friday or Saturday evenings.
• Ryde (Eastwood area): Lunar New Year celebrations usually take place on a weekend in late February at major parks or open spaces.
• Chatswood (Willoughby), Cabramatta, Blacktown, Lane Cove, St Leonards, Liverpool: These areas commonly host themed night markets, lantern displays, stage performances and family-friendly activities, mostly on weekend afternoons and evenings in mid to late February.

Final dates, times and locations for 2026 should be confirmed through official council websites or authorised event platforms. Some events may still be in sponsorship or stall-recruitment stages.

🎯 Final Note｜Enjoy the Festival — But Don’t Forget Your Visa Planning

Lunar New Year events offer a valuable opportunity for international students and families to ease homesickness and connect with the local community. After the festive period, many people also begin thinking more seriously about:

• Student visa renewals and timing for transitioning to a Temporary Graduate (485) visa
• Whether changing courses or institutions could affect future visa eligibility
• Whether it is time to consider employer sponsorship or longer-term migration planning

If you would like to:

• Clarify your current visa or bridging visa status and avoid unintentional non-compliance
• Plan your pathway for 2026–2027 and understand the pros and cons of different visa options
• Assess whether your next step should be continued study, a work visa, or another long-term strategy

It may be worth setting aside some time after the holidays to plan both your lifestyle and your visa security together.

📌 This article is compiled from council websites, public event platforms and past event information. All dates, times and locations are subject to change. Please refer to official organiser announcements for the most up-to-date details.

📅 Book a Consultation: www.riverwoodmigration.com/book-a-consultation

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