The city of Coquitlam has many festivals throughout the year. Lunar New Year holds a special place in many hearts, especially for seniors in Coquitlam. This time of year symbolizes renewal and family. It’s a period full of vibrant cultural activities. In this post, we’ll explore five events perfect for seniors to enjoy.
1. Lunar New Year Family Celebration
When: 12:00 PM — 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 27
Where: Coquitlam Heritage at Mackin House, 1116 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam
Cost: Free
Coquitlam Heritage presents a family-friendly celebration that’s rich in culture and excitement. The Lunar New Year Family Celebration brims with creativity, featuring arts and crafts activities open all day. Seniors can savour traditional New Year snacks and drinks. Discover rich traditions through enchanting stories and songs presented by Yuto Books, offered throughout the day in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese.
Capture the spirit of the celebration at their New Year photoshoot station, adorned with traditional decorations. It’s a perfect backdrop for memorable photos with family.
This event warmly welcomes individuals of all ages and language backgrounds. Its accessibility ensures everyone can join in the fun. Making it the perfect opportunity for seniors to bond with their families.
2. Golden Maple Lunar New Year Gala
When: 12:00 PM — 4:00 PM on Saturday, January 27
Where: Great Canadian Casino Vancouver, 2080 United Boulevard, Coquitlam
Cost: Tickets start at $31.15
The Golden Maple Lunar New Year Gala is renowned for its grand cultural and artistic performances. This event stands as a beacon of the Lunar New Year festivities, eagerly awaited by the community.
It promises not only a mesmerizing array of visual and auditory delights from top-notch art groups but also an extended celebration. Two hours of pre-show festivities, including interactive crafts and games, are set to provide a more enriching and varied entertainment experience for attendees. This live event is a must-attend for those seeking to fully engage in the Lunar New Year spirit.
It’s perfect for seniors who enjoy a lively, elegant afternoon. The gala features performances that resonate with older audiences. It’s a wonderful occasion for seniors to socialize and celebrate.
3. Lunar New Year’s Day – Henderson Place Mall
When: 10:00 AM — 7:00 PM on Saturday, February 10
Where: Henderson Place Mall, 1163 Pinetree Way, #2000 Coquitlam
Cost: Free
Henderson Place Mall becomes a hub of excitement on Lunar New Year’s Day. In a captivating display of cultural festivities, the event features an array of attractions that promise to delight. The highlight is the traditional Lion Dance, an emblem of strength and good fortune. Mesmerizing the audience with its vibrant colours and energetic movements. Onstage, a series of performances unfold, showcasing a blend of music, dance, and artistry, reflecting the rich tapestry of the celebration.
Adding to the excitement, the God of Fortune makes a special appearance, symbolizing prosperity and good luck, a cherished aspect of the Lunar New Year. The event also hosts a Lucky Draw, offering attendees the chance to win an array of prizes, adding an element of anticipation and thrill to the festivities.
The event is perfect for seniors, with easy access and festive celebrations. They can immerse themselves in the rich cultural atmosphere.
4. Red Packet & Fai Chun Gift
When: 11:00 AM — 6:00 PM on Sunday, February 11
Where: Henderson Place Mall, 1163 Pinetree Way, #2000 Coquitlam
Cost: Free
This event is centred around the traditions of Red Packets and Fai Chun. In a thoughtful gesture that beautifully blends tradition with modern allure, visitors to the event are treated to an exclusive coupon. Adding a touch of excitement and value to their experience. Complementing this modern giveaway, the event also honours the cherished Lunar New Year traditions with the distribution of traditional Red Pockets and Fai Chun.
The Red Pocket, symbolizing good luck and prosperity, is a heartfelt token that resonates deeply with the cultural roots of the celebration. Meanwhile, the Fai Chun, with its auspicious phrases and vibrant colours, adds an element of cultural richness and artistic charm to the occasion.
It offers seniors a chance to engage in these meaningful customs. They can participate in handicrafts and exchange thoughtful gifts. This experience connects them with their cultural roots.
5. Annual Chinese New Year Parade
When: 11:00 AM — 1:30 PM on the first Sunday after the Lunar New Year
Where: Chinatown, Vancouver — starting at Pender Street, turning onto Gore Street and then returning along Keefer
Cost: Free
The annual Spring Festival Parade in Chinatown is a visual spectacle seniors will love. With vibrant floats and performances, it’s a feast for the eyes. A magnificent spectacle, that can draw an enormous crowd. It’s a grand display of cultural vibrancy and community spirit. Featuring an impressive array of thousands of participants, including vibrant floats, dynamic marching bands, costumed walkers, rhythmic drummers, and lively firecracker displays.
The parade transforms the streets into a bustling hub of excitement, while the air is filled with the resonant beats of drums, creating an atmosphere of festive joy and energy. This event is not just a parade; it’s a celebration of culture and community, offering an exhilarating experience for all who attend.
In the aftermath of the parade, the excitement continues with Lion Dancing in the streets, a traditional and captivating performance.
Join the Lunar New Year Celebrations
These five events offer a blend of culture, family, and community spirit, perfect for seniors. Thankfully, the robust public transit system in Coquitlam makes it easy to get to all of these events.
We encourage all seniors in Coquitlam to participate and embrace the Lunar New Year’s joy. This celebration is not just about tradition; it’s about creating new memories. For seniors looking to discover more local events like these in Coquitlam, be sure to read our blog post on how to find Coquitlam events online.
