Get ready for the Lunar New Year celebrations happening at BC’s largest shopping centre, Metropolis at Metrotown! From February 9 – 24th, the mall will welcome the Year of the Dragon with celebrations that include a variety of performances, workshops, and traditional displays.
Planning a shopping trip soon and want to elevate it while celebrating Lunar New Year? These are eight fun (and lucky) promos you can find there!
1. Make a purchase of $288 & enjoy a complimentary $25 gift card plus a special gift
After indulging in an afternoon of shopping anywhere in the mall, head to the Grand Court, where you can pick a lucky red pocket from the cherry blossom tree. Inside, discover a $25 gift card, a retail voucher, and a keepsake commemorating the Year of the Dragon!
Fun fact: Shopping plays a significant role in Lunar New Year, with people splurging on food and decorations for their celebrations.
2. Give back to increase good fortune for you and others
For every shopper choosing a red pocket from the cherry blossom tree, Metropolis at Metrotown will contribute $5 to the Angels on Earth Society. This Burnaby-based charity offers cultural education to students without any charges.
Fun fact: During the new year, it’s a tradition for people to donate old clothing and items as a way to welcome new opportunities. Additionally, generosity is expressed towards family and friends through gifts, and preparations are made to offer blessings.
3. Witness a vibrant Lion Dance performance
On February 14th (commencing at 10 a.m.), gather in the Grand Court to witness the commencement of the performance. Follow the lion as it parades through Metropolis at Metrotown, bringing good luck and prosperity to both shoppers and retailers.
Fun fact: Vibrant celebrations, like dragon and lion dances, are believed to chase away the evil monster Nian.
4. Enjoy a musical performance
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the guzheng, a traditional Chinese instrument with a rich 2,500-year-old history, performed in the Grand Court.
On February 16 (12 pm – 2 pm), seize the opportunity to capture memories as the Lucky Buddha poses for photos and distributes red envelopes.
Fun fact: The loud sounds of fireworks are believed to ward off negative spirits and bad luck, while festive music sets a propitious ambiance, ushering in good fortune for the upcoming year.
5. Participate in a cooking class
On February 17 at 11 a.m., (12:30 pm, 2 pm, and 3:30 pm) head to Metropolis at Metrotown with an empty stomach! In addition to acquiring knowledge about crafting traditional Lunar New Year dishes, fortunate participants might have the chance to bring home a delectable treat.
Fun fact: Throughout the 15 days of Lunar New Year, loved ones come together for celebratory meals, aiming to usher in prosperity for the upcoming year.
6. Create your own decorations for the Lantern Festival
Join Metropolis at Metrotown on February 23 (from Noon to 2 p.m.) for an engaging craft workshop. Learn from three skilled artisans specializing in Chinese crafts: a Chinese dragon artisan, a Chinese gold phoenix artisan, and a Chinese lantern artisan.
Fun fact: The Lantern Festival marks the 15th and concluding day of Lunar New Year festivities.
7. Dance and indulge in a day of feasting
On February 24 (commencing at 12 pm), enjoy a dumpling eating competition, groove to both traditional and K-pop tunes, and acquire the skills of lion dancing.
Fun fact: The Birthday of Man is celebrated on the seventh day of Lunar New Year, considered as everyone’s birthday in various regions of China.
8. Eat your way through Metropolis at Metrotown
Culinary delights take center stage during Lunar New Year. Embark on a gastronomic journey through the shopping center, where more than 70 eateries entice with flavours from across the globe.
Fun fact: On the fourth day of Lunar New Year, it is a tradition for people to present food and wine as an offering to welcome the God of the Kitchen.
Looking for more fun activities to do in British Columbia? Here are more ideas!
