Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, has a rich history that spans thousands of years and holds great significance in various cultures across Asia. This important tradition is widely celebrated by diverse Asian communities around the globe. It commemorates the arrival of spring in the northern hemisphere and marks the start of the New Year.

During this festive period, numerous customs and traditions are observed for a period of 15 days, serving as a way to honour our cultural heritage and strengthen our community bonds.

Regardless of one’s nationality, religion, or ethnicity, New Year’s Day presents an opportunity for family gatherings, collective reflection, and the reaffirmation of relationships.

In 2024, the Lunar New Year will enthuse the Year of the Dragon, promising excitement and new beginnings.

The Lunar New Year celebrations in 2024 will commence on Saturday, the 10th of February.

Community Celebration

Date: Saturday, February 10th 2024

Time: TBA

Venue: Dai Gum San Precinct

Cost: Free 

Bendigo EASTER FESTIVAL

The Chinese Procession has played a significant role in the Easter Processions since 1871, featuring the awe-inspiring presence of a dragon named ‘Loong,’ which debuted in 1892. The name ‘Loong’ simply translates to Dragon. After a remarkable run, ‘Loong’ retired in 1970 (although made a special appearance in 2001 for Melbourne’s Federation parade centenary) and is now showcased in the acclaimed Golden Dragon Museum.

Taking over the mantle in 1970, Sun Loong ascended to become the world’s longest Imperial Dragon. However, in 2019, Sun Loong passed on the baton to Dai Gum Loong.

The current Chinese section of the Procession consists of seven segments, each displaying distinctive costumes representing the Lead, Philosophy, Military, Princess, Student, Dragon, and Dragon attendants. Some of these remarkable regalia can be admired at the Museum today.

When the Chinese community on the Bendigo goldfields brought Loong from Canton to support local charities, it marked the beginning of this tradition. However, before a dragon can make an appearance in the procession, it must be ceremonially awakened from its yearlong slumber. A tremendous uproar is required to rouse the dragon, achieved through the detonation of 100,000 firecrackers and the resounding beat of drums and other instruments.

2024 BENDIGO EASTER FESTIVAL

March 29th – 31st 2024

喜庆 XĬQÌNG – A Joyus Celebration

Drawing on the Lunar New Year traditions, this is a morning family festival celebrating contemporary Chinese dance and culture. The Bendigo Chinese Association will grace the stage along with cultural performances by visiting Chinese Associations.

Date: Saturday, March 30th, 2024

Time: TBA

Location: Dai Gum San Precinct

 

Awakening Of The Dragon

A traditional celebration of lion and dragon dance, presented by the Bendigo Chinese Association and visiting lion and dragon teams. It will conclude with the lighting of a spectacular string of 100,000 firecrackers used to wake Dai Gum Loong from his year-long slumber. 

Date: Saturday, March 30th, 2024

Time: TBA

Location: Dai Gum San Precinct

 

Torchlight Procession

This extraordinary procession illuminates the streets of Bendigo, creating a breathtaking spectacle. It showcases dazzling entries adorned with vibrant lights, including participants from local emergency services, community groups, and the Bendigo Chinese Association. As a grand finale, the festivities culminate with a dynamic fireworks display, painting the night sky above Rosalind Park.

Date: Saturday, March 30th, 2024

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Location: Bendigo

 

Bendigo Easter Festival Gala Parade

Immerse yourself in a vibrant and exhilarating festival tradition bursting with colour and excitement. Witness an array of bands, cultural groups, dance troupes, sporting clubs, school groups, and countless others as they showcase their talents along the lively parade route.

Prepare to be captivated by the Bendigo Chinese Association’s awe-inspiring cultural exhibition, culminating in the majestic presence of Dai Gum Loong, the world’s longest Imperial dragon, gracefully maneuvering through the historic streets of Bendigo.

This is an unmissable event that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Date: Sunday, March 31st, 2024

Time: 12:30 p.m.

Location: Bendigo

Harvest Moon Festival

The Harvest Moon festival is a cherished celebration observed in various forms across numerous Asian countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Vietnam, India, Thailand, and China. While each country showcases its unique customs and traditions during the festival, there are common threads that bind them together. These shared themes include expressing gratitude for the bountiful harvest, offering prayers and well wishes for the prosperity and well-being of loved ones, and fostering a sense of unity among families and friends.

Date: TBA 2024
Time: TBA
Venue: Dai Gum San Precinct
Cost: Free