Amsterdam has one of the oldest Chinatowns of Europe, and its biggest party is Chinese New Year. On Saturday 6 February 2027, the neighbourhood around Nieuwmarkt and the Zeedijk welcomes the new lunar year with lion dances, firecrackers and festivities.

Celebrating in Amsterdam’s Chinatown

The celebration centres on the Nieuwmarkt and the He Hua Temple on the Zeedijk – the largest Buddhist temple in Europe built in traditional Chinese style. Expect traditional lion and dragon dances that visit the shops and restaurants to bring luck, firecracker shows to chase away evil spirits, martial arts demonstrations and food stalls.

What to see and do

• Lion dance parade through the Zeedijk, Geldersekade and surrounding streets
• He Hua Temple: open house with ceremonies and incense offerings
• Feast afterwards: the restaurants of Chinatown are at their liveliest – book a table or join the queue for dim sum

Practical information

• Date: Saturday 6 February 2027 (Chinese New Year’s Day), festivities typically 11:00-18:00
• Location: Nieuwmarkt & Zeedijk, 5 minutes from Central Station
• Costs: free

Chinatown borders the oldest canals of the city and the Red Light District – combine the celebrations with a walk through medieval Amsterdam, or warm up afterwards on a winter canal cruise.