Hope on the horizon: Chinese New Year in London

CGTN Europe

The world can be a scary place. But Chinese New Year is a chance to focus on fun, rather than fear.   Thousands of people gathered in central London for this year’s celebration.   CGTN’s Michael Marillier explored the traditions and values behind the event.   #chinesenewyear #2025 #london

Transcript

00:00Trafalgar Square. It's one of my favourite spots in London. Full of history. Full of tradition.

00:23But today, it feels a little different. Today, it's full of hope.

00:32It's Chinese New Year, and it all kicks off with a parade from the square to nearby Chinatown.

00:40Thousands of people line up to get a glimpse. It's a celebration of China's unique culture.

00:47We are so excited to see all the familiar faces. They're from our hometown,

00:55and it makes us feel like we're back home. I like that London celebrates Chinese New Year.

01:01But this isn't just about China. This celebration seems to bring people together.

01:08Somehow, it transcends borders.

01:11London is so multicultural, isn't it? And just to see

01:14the cultures all getting along, and to be able to celebrate with the people so close to Chinatown,

01:19it's just, yeah, it's just one of those real heartwarming London kind of things, isn't it?

01:26You know what? There's so much conflict and tension in the world right now. Sometimes,

01:31it's just great to see people having fun. And that's what today is all about.

01:37China's ambassador to the UK was one of the guests.

01:41He says the world needs to focus less on politics and more on people.

01:47This is exactly what we have gathered here for, to celebrate peace,

01:56solidarity, friendship, and cooperation.

02:01The Lions of Trafalgar Square stood guard as the officials delivered their speeches.

02:10But just up the road, another group of Lions was on the prowl.

02:18Lions are on the loose in London. We're here in the heart of Chinatown for the traditional

02:25Lion dance ceremony.

02:30The Lions move from restaurant to restaurant. They're supposed to bring blessings for the year

02:35ahead. The owners will usually greet them, offering food in return for good fortune.

02:44It's an age-old practice. But this year, one of the Lions is just a cub.

02:51Performer Jay Sebastian is still a teenager. And yet, he's embracing the tradition.

02:58It makes us all happy to see the smile on people's faces.

03:01The staff in the restaurant, they love it. They all want to take pictures.

03:04And it's very fun to entertain them.

03:07But the Lions aren't the only ones looking for food.

03:13Can you smell that? Noodles.

03:16Ah, yes. The food. The diet will have to wait.

03:21Just some of the noodles will be good, thanks.

03:23Because Chinese New Year isn't Chinese New Year without a tasty treat.

03:33There was also some food for thought.

03:36London's Deputy Mayor reminded us why it's so important to learn from other cultures.

03:41This is what is great about diversity. And this is what is great about our city.

03:46So thank you for turning up and being a part of these celebrations today.

03:52May you have a year filled with joy, with prosperity, with success, with happiness.

04:01These are uncertain times.

04:05But at an event like this, it's almost impossible not to feel happy.

04:12It is, after all, a new year.

04:16And it is brimming with possibility.

Category

Transcript

Recommended