A two-day Lunar New Year market with Lion Dances & Mahjong is coming to Vancouver

It’s almost time to celebrate the Lunar New Year, which officially begins on Saturday, February 10th. Even sooner is this year’s Lunar New Year Market at the UBC Botanical Garden, which will bring together over 30 local makers, artists, and food trucks in celebration of the Year of the Dragon. So if you’re looking for a way to honour the occasion this weekend, read on.

In addition to local vendors and artists, visitors can enjoy Lion Dance performances, Kung Fu performances by UBC’s Kung Fu Club, and a number of interactive cultural workshops.

This includes the basics of calligraphy, making sweet dumpling desserts, and learning more about the plants found in the Asian garden.

The market will also offer visitors the chance to purchase fresh flowers, dried floral arrangements, and potted plants.

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On Saturday, February 3rd, visitors can enjoy storytimes in English and Chinese by the Vancouver Public Library. On Sunday, February 4th, those interested can take part in a Chinese Greetings Workshop from 2 to 3 pm, and a Mahjong workshop from 2 to 2:45 pm. So if you’ve always wanted to learn how to play – now’s your chance!

The Lunar New Year Market will take place from 10 am to 4 pm at the garden’s Reception Centre on both days. Tickets are priced at $8.46 per person and can be purchased online.

Note that additional tickets can be purchased for the following workshops (available on both days):

• Sweet Dumpling Workshop: 11 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 to 3 pm
• Calligraphy Workshop: 11 am to 12:30 pm and 2 pm to 3 pm
• Light Engraving Workshop:  11 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm

Admission to the market also includes admission to the Asian Garden – weather permitting.

So there you have it, Vancouver. Enjoy the celebration and Happy Year of the Dragon!

Lunar New Year Market at UBC Botanical Garden

When: Saturday, February 3rd and Sunday, February 4th
Where: 6804 South West Marine Drive
Cost: $8.88