Birmingham will be welcoming in the Year of the Fire Horse with Chinese New Year celebrations in the city centre.
The free events will take place around Chinatown and Hippodrome Square off Hurst Street in Southside throughout half term.
Starting on Tuesday February 17, there will be market stalls and funfair rides until Saturday February 21, ahead of the main Chinese New Year 2026 Festival on Sunday February 22.
Co-produced by Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee and Birmingham Hippodrome, there will be a traditional lion procession around Chinatown and a packed day of theatrical performances at Hippodrome Square on Sunday, February 22.
At the heart of the celebrations, the festival stage will host a busy programme showcasing the talent and creativity of Birmingham’s Chinese and East Asian communities.
Audiences can enjoy a dynamic mix of traditional and contemporary music, dance and theatre performances.
The celebrations are supported by the W Wing Yip & Brothers Foundation along with donations, partnership or in-kind support from Rainbow Casino, Chung Ying, The Southside Building and Birmingham City Council.
James Wong, Chair of the Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee said: “We’re proud to once again co-produce an event that reflects the strength and vibrancy of Birmingham’s communities.
“The support of the W Wing Yip & Brothers Foundation plays a vital role in making the festival possible, helping us to deliver a free, accessible celebration that honours tradition, supports local artists and brings communities together.”
Matt Evans, Head of Festivals and Sites at Birmingham Hippodrome added: “We’re pleased to be working with the Birmingham Chinese Festival Committee again to deliver a programme that celebrates local talent and brings people together in the heart of the city.”
Jenny Loynton DL, Trustee of the W Wing Yip & Brothers Foundation said: “Our decision to play a significant role in these celebrations is driven by the legacy of Mr Wing Yip OBE and the Wing Yip family’s enduring desire of giving back to the city that has supported their journey and their belief in the importance of promoting culture, education, helping to uplift communities and celebrate the diverse heritage that strengthens Birmingham and the UK’s social fabric.”
See the full programme for Birmingham Chinese New Year Festival here.