Rotary Melbourne member and man-about-town Stephen Rando joined the vibrant festivities in Chinatown as Melbourne welcomed the Year of the Snake with its biggest Lunar New Year celebration yet. More than 200,000 people filled the streets, embracing the energy, colours, and flavours of this much-loved cultural event.
A highlight of the day was the Millennium Dragon Parade, which wound its way through Chinatown despite soaring temperatures of 36 degrees. The Year of the Snake, symbolising wisdom, transformation, and renewal, was a fitting theme for a festival that continues to evolve and strengthen community connections.
With support from the City of Melbourne’s $90,000 grant, the event not only honoured Chinatown’s rich history but also reinforced its significance in the city’s future. Stephen shared his excitement about the growing impact of the festival, remarking that Melbourne’s Lunar New Year keeps getting “bigger and better,” inspiring all to embrace change and new opportunities.
Rotary Melbourne celebrates and supports events that bring communities together, and we look forward to seeing this festival continue to flourish in the years ahead.
