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As the world welcomes the Year of the Wooden Snake, Madrid is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of the Chinese New Year, a tradition that has become an integral part of the city's cultural calendar. Here’s a detailed look at the festivities that will transform Madrid into a vibrant hub of Chinese culture.

Dates and Duration

The Chinese New Year Festival in Madrid begins on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, and will conclude on February 16, 2026. This extended celebration ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy over the two-week period.

Main Venue: Usera District

The heart of the celebrations is in the Usera district, often referred to as Madrid’s “Chinatown” due to its large Chinese population. This area will host a myriad of activities, exhibitions, and events that showcase the rich cultural heritage of China.

Key Events

Opening Ceremony and Cultural Exhibitions

The festivities kick off with the Opening Ceremony of the Chinese New Year of the Snake 2025 on Friday, January 31, at the stage tent on the esplanade of the Junta Municipal Usera. This will be followed by various cultural exhibitions, including the Wishing Wall, where participants can leave their wishes for the new year, and the Chinese handicraft market, which will feature traditional handmade products such as calligraphy, decorative fans, and mask painting.

Fireworks Display

One of the highlights of the celebration is the fireworks display at Pradolongo Park. Scheduled for Saturday, February 1, from 8:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m., this free event promises to be a spectacular show of light and color, attracting good luck and warding off evil spirits. The best viewing spots include Pradolongo Lake and the David González Rubio Field.

Grand Parade

The Grand Parade of the Chinese New Year will take place on Sunday, February 2, starting at Marcelo Usera Street and ending at Rafael Ybarra Avenue. This vibrant parade will feature giant dragons and lions, traditional Chinese costumes, lanterns designed by children, and live music.

Workshops and Performances

Throughout the celebration, various workshops and performances will be held. These include a Beijing Opera Mask Cutting and Painting Workshop, Chinese meditation workshops, and a Chinese Carnival: Costume Ball with DJ Manolo. The Chinese Vibesss Concert with DJ Yang on Saturday, February 1, is another event not to be missed.

Gastronomic Delights

The celebration also includes a Chinese Market and Gastronomic Space where visitors can taste typical Chinese food from various food trucks. This market will be open from January 31 to February 2, offering a culinary journey through Chinese cuisine.

Additional Activities

Business Day and Cultural Connections

On Tuesday, February 4, a Business Day event will be held, focusing on connections with Weihai and opportunities for entrepreneurs. This event is part of the broader cultural exchange program.

Exhibitions

Several exhibitions will run concurrently, including ‘A view from Weihai’ and ‘Red Chinese Inks’, both from January 29 to February 28. A photography exhibition titled ‘La Fiesta de la Primavera’ will also be on display from January 31 to February 16.

Getting Involved

The Chinese New Year celebration in Madrid is a collaborative effort involving the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, local Chinese associations, artistic groups, Casa Asia, the Confucius Institute, and other cultural organizations. This diverse participation ensures a rich and authentic cultural experience.

Whether you are an expat living in Madrid or just visiting, the Chinese New Year celebrations offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of China. With its array of events, exhibitions, and performances, Madrid’s Chinatown is set to come alive in a celebration that promises to be unforgettable.