Metropolis at Metrotown is welcoming the Year of the Snake with an exciting lineup of Lunar New Year festivities from January 13 to February 16, 2025. This year’s celebrations feature the inaugural Chef Series, interactive workshops, cultural performances, and vibrant displays throughout BC’s largest shopping centre.
Culinary Celebrations at the Chef Series
The Chef Series will take place on February 2 and 9 in the Grand Court and highlights four celebrated chefs who will demonstrate signature dishes reflecting their cultural heritage:
- Quang Dang – With Vietnamese and Scottish roots, Quang Dang is known for his experience as the former executive chef of West Restaurant and his leadership at D.I.C.E.D., a culinary social enterprise. He now runs QD Catering & Hospitality.
- Katy Cheung – Born in Vancouver and raised in Hong Kong, Katy Cheung is currently a sous chef at the Michelin-starred Burdock & Co and brings expertise in refined, locally sourced cuisine.
- Chanthy Yen – Originally from Cambodia, Chanthy Yen has worked in globally acclaimed kitchens and served as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s personal chef. In 2024, he won Top Chef Canada and now leads the culinary team at Bacaro.
- Haan Palcu-Chang – A Taiwanese-Romanian chef from Toronto, Haan Palcu-Chang runs private dining experiences and cooking workshops on Salt Spring Island and was a notable participant in Top Chef Canada 2024.
Each chef will demonstrate cooking techniques, share stories behind their dishes, and explore the cultural significance of food in Lunar New Year traditions.
Traditional Lion Dance and Workshop
The traditional Lion Dance will return on February 1, filling the Grand Court with rhythmic drumming, bold movements, and vibrant costumes. Dancers will parade through the shopping centre, bringing good luck and warding off negative energy. During the performance, the God of Fortune will hand out red envelopes to lucky visitors, containing exclusive food offers from participating retailers.
New this year, visitors can participate in the Learn How to Lion Dance workshop on February 1, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Presented by Bak Mei Kung Fu and Lion Dance, this session will teach the fundamentals of lion dance movements, rooted in traditional martial arts. Open to all skill levels, it’s a chance to engage directly with this dynamic cultural art form.
Cultural and Educational Workshops
From February 6 to 9 (12:00 pm – 4:00 pm), the Chinese Canadian Museum will host a series of free educational workshops on the ground level near Fossil. Activities include:
- Abacus learning sessions
- Family tree colouring activities
- Lantern-cutting crafts
- Practice sessions for basic Chinese phrases
Local artists will also offer interactive craft-making experiences, including:
- Chinese Lantern Origami – Transform traditional red pockets into intricate lantern designs.
- Calligraphy Demonstrations – Learn the art of Chinese calligraphy from experienced artists.
These workshops provide opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in Lunar New Year traditions and gain hands-on experience with cultural crafts.
Plan Your Visit
Metropolis at Metrotown’s Lunar New Year celebrations run from January 13 to February 16, 2025. The shopping centre operates:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Sunday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
For more event details, schedules, and updates, visit Metropolis at Metrotown.