Metropolis at Metrotown is pulling out all the stops to ring in the Year of the Snake with a vibrant lineup of Lunar New Year celebrations! From January 13 to February 16, 2025, BC’s largest shopping centre will be transformed into a hub of cultural festivities, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a foodie, a fan of traditional performances, or just looking to try something new, here’s what you can expect:
Asian Cuisine Shines at the New Chef Series
Food takes the spotlight this year with the inaugural Chef Series, happening on February 2 and 9 in the Grand Court. Four renowned chefs will share their culinary expertise, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions and modern interpretations of Asian cuisine:
- Quang Dang: A celebrated chef with Vietnamese and Scottish roots, Quang is the proprietor of QD Catering & Hospitality and previously helmed the award-winning West Restaurant.
- Katy Cheung: Raised in Hong Kong, Katy is a sous chef at the MICHELIN Starred Burdock & Co.
- Chanthy Yen: Originally from Cambodia, Chanthy has worked at some of the world’s top restaurants, served as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s personal chef, and won Top Chef Canada in 2024. He’s now the executive chef at Bacaro.
- Haan Palcu-Chang: This Taiwanese-Romanian chef recently appeared on Top Chef Canada and is currently based on Salt Spring Island, where he runs cooking workshops and private events.
Experience the Thrill of a Traditional Lion Dance
Don’t miss the excitement of the traditional Lion Dance on February 1. Two teams of dancers will parade through the mall, accompanied by lively music to chase away evil spirits. Adding to the fun, the God of Fortune will distribute red envelopes filled with food offers to lucky shoppers.
New Learn the Art of Lion Dancing
This year introduces an interactive twist with a “Learn How to Lion Dance” workshop on February 1 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Hosted by Bak Mei Kung Fu and Lion Dance, this session will teach participants of all skill levels the fitness-forward, martial arts-inspired movements that form the heart of this traditional dance.
Hands-On Cultural Workshops
Explore Chinese traditions through a series of free educational workshops presented by the Chinese Canadian Museum from February 6 to 9 (12 pm – 4 pm). Activities include abacus learning, family tree coloring, lantern-cutting, and practicing Chinese phrases. Local artists will also lead craft-making sessions such as Chinese lantern folding and calligraphy on February 1 (11 am – 3 pm).
Tell Us More Metrotown!!
“We are thrilled to commemorate the Year of the Snake by inviting people of all cultural backgrounds to usher in a lucky, joyous, and prosperous new year,” said Amanda Chung, marketing manager. “Metropolis at Metrotown has elevated this year’s celebrations with the new Chef Series event and Lion Dance workshop, along with beloved returning favourites like craft-making and festive décor. Our doors are open to everyone who celebrates Lunar New Year or wants to learn more about this important tradition.”
Plan Your Visit
Lunar New Year celebrations run from January 13 to February 16, 2025, at Metropolis at Metrotown. The shopping centre is open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 9 pm, and Sunday, 11 am to 7 pm. For more details, visit metropolisatmetrotown.com.
Get ready to celebrate the Year of the Snake in style with food, fun, and cultural discovery at Metropolis at Metrotown!