Sunderland is welcoming the Year of the Dog, with its very own Chinese New Year celebrations in the city centre.
A full programme of events, from lion dancing and martial arts demonstrations to calligraphy and traditional dancing, will bring the culture of the East to the North East.
The event, on 25 February, will take place at the Bridges and is being organised by Ian Wong, owner of Asiana restaurant, with support from Sunderland’s Business Improvement District and Gentoo.
The jam-packed schedule will kick off at 12pm with a traditional dragon dance outside the Market Square entrance to the Bridges, followed by a packed programme running until 4pm.
Performances will include Chinese screen painting, Kung Fu demonstrations, traditional dancing, music played with traditional Chinese instruments and local pupils singing Chinese songs.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to try their hand at Chinese calligraphy throughout the day, with Chinese arts and crafts for children.
“Chinese New Year is a really important date on the calendar and I’m delighted that once again we can get the people of Sunderland to enjoy a whole range of cultural experiences,” said Mr Wong.
“I am really grateful for the BID’s support because without them, this couldn’t have gone ahead.”
Sharon Appleby, Head of Business Operations at Sunderland BID, hopes Sunderland residents will take the opportunity to attend the free event.
“Ian has put together a really diverse range of entertainment which people of all ages can enjoy,” she said.
“Chinese New Year is a wonderful opportunity for people to learn more about another culture and have a great day out at the same time.”
Samantha Czwordon, marketing manager at the Bridges, said the shopping centre seized on the opportunity for shoppers to find out more about Chinese New Year.
“We like to enhance the experience shoppers have when they come to the Bridges, so the chance to host some fantastic entertainment and to share in Chinese New Year was something we are delighted to be part of.”
Although Chinese New Year itself falls on 16 February, across Asia it is also celebrated up to two weeks after that date.