Lunar New Year: Sheffield promises biggest-ever celebration

Events in Sheffield will celebrate the Chinese Year of the Dragon

Sheffield is set for its "biggest ever" Lunar New Year celebration, organisers said.

The Chinese Year of the Dragon marks the 20th anniversary of celebrations in Sheffield, with free events taking place across the city centre.

The Peace Gardens will become a "cultural hub", organisers said, hosting more than 35 stalls showcasing Chinese cuisine, art and culture.

Sunday promises a dragon parade in the city along with street performances.

Lunar New Year is one of the biggest celebrations in the Chinese calendar.

Jerry Cheung, from organisers New Era Development, said the event should "celebrate Sheffield's multiculturalism".

"I went to the lunar celebrations in Manchester, they must have attracted 20,000 people to the city centre and we could do that here," he said.

This year's event was launched with the illumination of a 5m (16ft) dragon at the city's children's hospital on Friday.

Jerry Cheung with Lord Mayor of Sheffield Councillor Colin Ross and Lady Mayoress Susan Ross

Mr Cheung said: "The Chinese zodiac has 12 animals and the dragon stands out.

"Everyone wants a dragon baby - a dragon is good at everything - smart, energetic, organised and composed."

The event, which will support Sheffield's Children's Hospital Charity, raised £13,000 in 2023 through sponsorships.

Councillor Colin Ross, Sheffield's Lord Mayor, said: "Sheffield should punch above its weight and showcase what we can do.

"This year the celebration will be bigger and better than it ever has been before."