Celebrate the year of the snake at Melbourne Museum
Join us this Lunar New Year for your chance to win return flights to China!
Shed your skin and slide into the Year of the Snake when the joy of Lunar New Year transforms Melbourne Museum into a vibrant hub of celebration on Saturday 1 February, 10am–2pm.
All Lunar New Year programs are free for children and are included with general museum entry for adults, ensuring that these traditional performances, fun-filled activities and captivating experiences can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Curious minds can challenge themselves with the Zodiac Quest Competition – a scavenger hunt through the museum’s galleries to find all 12 zodiac animals, each represented by unique objects with a Victorian twist. One lucky hunter will even win return flights to China! The Zodiac Quest Competition runs from 28 January – 2 February and is proudly sponsored by Air China.
On Saturday 1 February, kick off festivities in the foyer with dragon and lion dancing from the Chinese Youth Society of Melbourne (CYSM), bursting with intricate choreography, colourful costumes and thunderous drumbeats. Then, bring the heartbeat down with enchanting melodies of an ancient Chinese instrument, the 21-string Ghuzeng, offering a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to a Chinese fan dance.
The brave at heart can come face-to-face with real slithering superstars when the live exhibits team introduce two of their fascinating snakes in the Learning Lab, as well as museum experts sharing some of the serpent treasures from the State Collection that are normally kept under lock and key.
At midday, little ones can gather around for Lunar Storytime when Melbourne-based writer Rebecca Lim introduces the traditions and spirit of Lunar New Year with her book Our Family Dragon.
‘Lunar New Year celebrations are a true testament to the multiculturalism sitting in the heart of our city and everything we strive to do at Museums Victoria,’ said Museums Victoria director of exhibitions and experiences Tim Rolfe.
‘For many young ones this will be an opportunity to discover a new culture for the first time, while providing the space for others to remain connected to their heritage and family.’
Embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of the mysterious snake which is said to set the tone for the lunar calendar. With plenty to explore and enjoy, including the interactive Antopia exhibition that immerses visitors in the fascinating secret life of ants, Lunar New Year at Melbourne Museum is the perfect way for families to kickstart 2025 with excitement and wonder.
For further information visit the Melbourne Museum website https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/whats-on/lunar-new-year-2025/
Lunar New Year 2025
Date: Saturday 1 February, 10am–2pm
Location: Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street Carlton
Tickets: Included with museum entry, on sale at Melbourne Museum and online here
Member: free | Child: free | Adult: $15
