Chinese New Year is just around the corner! If you’re in Metro Manila, there are plenty of ways to celebrate. From watching cultural performances to trying your luck with festive games, here are some ideas for making the most out of this auspicious occasion. Where will you start the Year of the Wooden Snake?

1. Greenhills Mall Lion Dance Competition (January 19, 2025)

Head to Greenhills Mall’s East Wing Atrium for the country’s first-ever Lion Dance Competition, hosted by Pawchester and Huang Lion & Dragon Dance Group. Featuring 10 skilled teams battling in five categories (Snake, Centipede, Bridge, Drunken, and Scorpion) this exhilarating event promises colorful displays, acrobatics, and heart-thumping drum beats. The winning team gets a P100,000 grand prize!

2. Okada Manila (January 6 – February 12, 2025)

Indulge in gourmet delights and family-friendly activities at Okada Manila. Savor seasonal dishes like sea cucumbers and braised fish maw, rejuvenate with discounted spa treatments, or try your luck at the Lucky Numbers Challenge for prizes. Don’t forget to enjoy sweet treats like Mandarin Orange Entremet while exploring zodiac-themed activities with your family.

3. SM Supermalls (January 18–31, 2025)

Experience family-oriented fun as SM Supermalls transforms into hubs of Chinese culture. Snap photos at IG-worthy decorations, meet their digital snake mascot SiMi, and savor delicacies from the “Everything Red” fair. With activities like the Lucky Money Tree and Lion Dances paired with culinary delights, SM guarantees fun for all ages.

4. Henry’s Community Chinese New Year Photo Walk (January 28, 2025)

Capture the vibrant streets of Binondo with Henry’s Cameras’ first-ever photo walk. Meet fellow photography enthusiasts at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz and snap the lively Chinese New Year celebrations. Bring your camera, meet new friends, and capture the essence of Binondo’s colorful culture.

To register for free, join the Henry’s Community.

5. Peninsula Manila (January 29, 2025)

Celebrate Chinese New Year at The Lobby with a spectacular Lion and Dragon Dance performance to usher in luck and prosperity. While you’re there, treat yourself to the sumptuous Lo Hei platter or a themed buffet at Escolta featuring 12 auspicious dishes. Don’t forget to pick up some Nian Gao rice pudding or chocolate treats at The Peninsula Boutique.

6. The Manila Hotel (January 15 – February 2, 2025)

Savor The Manila Hotel’s limited-edition Tikoy in almond and red bean flavors, perfect for gifts or holiday feasts. On January 29, enjoy a Lion and Dragon Dance while dining on special set menus at Red Jade featuring sumptuous Chinese delicacies like Peking Duck. Prefer to celebrate at home? Grab their Chinese New Year Hot Box for a festival-worthy feast. For more details, visit The Manila Hotel website.

7. City of Dreams (January 29, 2025)

Immerse yourself in Chinese traditions at City of Dreams with lion dances, Eye-Dotting Ceremonies, and Hong Bao giveaways. Enjoy themed dining experiences or bring the kids for zodiac fun at DreamPlay. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

8. Robinsons Malls (January 24-30, 2025)

Join the Prosperity Trail at Robinsons Malls for arts, crafts, live demos, and a Prosperity Bazaar where you’ll find festive goodies. Stop by the Luckiest Red station on the RMalls+ app for exclusive rewards while enjoying exciting performances.

How will you be celebrating Chinese New Year?