Celebrating the Lunar / Chinese New Year:
A Spectacle of Culture & Community
Welcoming the Year of the Fire Horse
For nearly a decade, Cosmopolitan Arts has been the heartbeat of Leicester’s Chinese and Lunar New Year celebrations. What began as a local vision has blossomed into the largest celebration of its kind in the East Midlands, attracting over 50,000 people to the streets of Leicester each year.
Our festival is a vibrant bridge between communities, showcasing the beauty of East Asian traditions through high-octane performances, ancient art forms, and immersive community participation.
2026 Festival Highlights
An unforgettable day at Highcross Leicester! We had an energetic array of performances at Highcross Leicester spanning traditional and contemporary, including Chinese opera, pipa and erhu performances, water sleeve dances, lion dances, pop performances, and more!
The Art of Bian Lian: For the first time in Leicester, audiences witnessed the 300-year-old ‘Face Changing’ art form, where silk masks are switched at lightning speed.
Cultural workshops: We offered free, hands-on festive and cultural crafts including lantern making, in partnership
with De Montfort University’s Confucius Institute!The Grand City Procession: A joyful community parade through Leicester city centre, this year’s procession was a sea of colour featuring legendary lion dancers, towering dragons, giant puppets, and traditional figures to bring good fortune!
A Spectacular Finale: The festivities culminated in Town Hall Square with a breathtaking blend of pyrotechnics, live
music, and fire dancing!We illuminated Gallowtree Gate with traditional lanterns that were enjoyed for the whole 15-day Lunar New Year period.
Cosmopolitan Arts is a Community Interest Company (CIC) dedicated to breaking down barriers. Our Lunar New Year events were free, accessible, and designed for the whole family.
“This festival has grown to become the biggest celebration in the region, showcasing vibrant Chinese arts and traditions while promising an unforgettable experience for all.” > — Amanda Leandro, Executive Director.
“This fantastic festival is possible thanks to the support of our wonderful funders and partners.”
