QVMAG welcomes the Year of the Snake

Image: City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood with members of the Launceston Chinese Association.

A day of free celebrations welcoming the 2025 Lunar New Year will kick off on Saturday morning at Launceston's Queen Victoria Art Gallery, with fun activities in store for everyone.  

Delivered by QVMAG in partnership with the Launceston Chinese Association, the Lunar New Year 2025 celebrations will feature something for people of all ages and interests.

Visitors to the Art Gallery at Royal Park on Saturday 8 February can expect to enjoy traditional dance and music performances, Chinese calligraphy, tai chi classes, family fun craft activities, and tours of the Guan Di Temple exhibition at the Art Gallery at Royal Park.

Celebrated by many cultures across the world, Lunar New Year marks the beginning of spring and the arrival of the new year with a festival that unites families and communities in a spirit of renewal, optimism, and hope for the future.

With each year featuring a different animal from Chinese zodiac, 2025 will celebrate the year of the Snake, bringing wisdom, wealth, growth and happiness.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said it was fantastic to see Launceston once again filled with vibrant community celebrations for Lunar New Year.

“There is something for everyone to experience and enjoy on the day at the Art Gallery and I encourage everyone to make the most of this free community event in the heart of our City as we welcome the Year of the Snake," said Mayor Garwood.

QVMAG Director Shane Fitzgerald said the annual Lunar New Year events are a wonderful way to celebrate our island’s diverse cultures.

“Experiences like this connect us as a community,” Fitzgerald said. “Join us at the Art Gallery at Royal Park this Saturday and be immersed in the rich traditions and stories of Lunar New Year. It will be a fantastic day of family-friendly activities.”

Visitors can also explore the history of Chinese migrants in Northern Tasmania through QVMAG’s 3D collection, which will be available to access on the day or online any time.

The full Lunar New Year 2025 program is available at www.qvmag.tas.gov.au/Events 

Issued 5 February 2025.