Watch my video here: Chinese New Year in Rotterdam.
Chinese New Year in Rotterdam is a vibrant celebration that took place from February 10th to 25th, 2024. With a diverse program, the festivities attracted both local residents and visitors. On February 17th, 2024, I decided to attend the lion dance processions in Rotterdam, a traditional part of Chinese New Year.
The Lion Dance Route
From Depot Boijmans van Beuningen to Holland Casino Weena, lion dancers paraded through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of drums, cymbals, and gongs. The lively lion dance procession brought a sense of joy and optimism.
Exploring Chinatown Rotterdam
After the lion dance procession, the West-Kruiskade, also known as Chinatown Rotterdam, caught my attention. This neighborhood offers an abundance of Chinese restaurants and shops, as well as venues with diverse cultural backgrounds. The streets were adorned with red lanterns and banners in honor of Chinese New Year. The atmosphere was lively and inviting.
Creative Workshops in the Trams
Various workshops and creative activities were available in the stationary trams. For example, you could learn how to make a bowl of Chinese porcelain or stamping a dragon on Chinese rice paper. There were also exhibitions featuring young artists with Asian roots to admire.
Market and Culinary Experiences
At the entrance of the market in Chinatown, you could tie a red ribbon with a personal wish for the new year, a beautiful tradition that added to the festive atmosphere of the day. At the market itself, you could enjoy a wide range of food, drinks, and Chinese goods. Although the wait times at the food stalls were sometimes long, I didn’t wait due to the crowds. Luckily, there were plenty of dining options in Chinatown where you could enjoy delicious food.
Fireworks and Festive Performances
The fireworks display was an impressive spectacle that drew people together to watch the dazzling show. The fireworks were so loud that some people even wore earplugs. After the fireworks, the festivities continued with dragon dances, lion dances, and various performances on multiple stages.
Lion Dances in Katendrecht and Fireworks at Holland Amerikaplein
On February 18, 2024, lion dances took place during the day in Katendrecht, a neighborhood formerly known as Chinatown. Later in the evening, a fireworks display with decorative fireworks followed at Holland Amerikaplein. Unfortunately, I couldn’t be there myself, but I would have loved to experience it.
A Successful Chinese New Year in Rotterdam
Chinese New Year in Rotterdam was once again a successful event, bringing the city to life with cultural diversity and festive activities. Chinatown Rotterdam played a central role in the celebration. There, I could enjoy traditional rituals, delicious food, and a cozy atmosphere. It was an excellent opportunity to welcome the new year with hope, joy, and prosperity.
Year of the Dragon
