Upper Canada Mall, Hillcrest Mall celebrating Lunar New Year

On Saturday, Feb. 3, Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket and Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill will host a celebration that includes traditional lion dances, lantern making, balloon animals, fai chun

Newmarkettoday.ca
Jan. 29, 2024

Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket and Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill are partnering with the North Toronto Chinese Alliance Church for spectacular Lunar New Year celebrations, marking the Year of the Dragon, on Saturday, Feb. 3.

These festive events promise cultural richness, family-friendly activities and traditional performances, according to a news release.

“We’re pleased to be collaborating with the North Toronto Chinese Alliance Church for a third year to celebrate the Year of the Dragon,” said Ryan Da Silva, director and general manager, Upper Canada Mall and Hillcrest Mall.

“Both Upper Canada Mall and Hillcrest Mall are important destinations that connect the members of our community in a variety of ways. Making this Lunar New Year celebration joyous for everyone in our centres creates a sense of occasion and relevance that extends beyond any one community. We’re giving York Region a way to embrace and come together around this significant cultural moment.”

Event details
On Saturday, Feb. 3, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Market Court at Upper Canada and Centre Court at Hillcrest will come alive with the spirit of Lunar New Year. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in activities such as lantern making, balloon animals, a traditional lion dance and much more.

The malls will showcase beautiful Lunar New Year-themed backdrops, impressive eight-foot dragon displays, and interactive zodiac signs discovery experience for a range of compelling photo moments.

Upper Canada Mall performances on Saturday, Feb. 3:

• 12:30 to 1 p.m.: Children’s show featuring Lunar New Year poem readings, fai chun and an incredible lion dance.
• 2:30 to 3 p.m.: Drum dance, kung fu exercise, a qipao performance showcasing traditional Chinese clothes and Lunar New Year songs.
• Hillcrest Mall performances on Saturday, Feb. 3.
• 12:30 to 1 p.m.: Drum dance, kung fu exercise, a qipao performance showcasing traditional Chinese clothes and Lunar New Year songs.
• 2:30 to 3 p.m.: Children’s show featuring Lunar New Year poem readings, fai chun, and an incredible lion dance.
• Interactive booths at Hillcrest Mall and Upper Canada Mall (from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3):
• Balloon twisting: Learn about the definition of lucky 吉 and get your own tangerine balloon symbolizing good luck in the next year.
• DIY folding star lantern by red envelopes: Create iconic Lunar New Year decorations and learn about the significance of red envelopes.
• Face painting: Enjoy Lunar New Year-themed face painting with multiple designs and patterns.
• Make a wish: Hang your wishes on a tree, adding to the festive spirit.
• Polaroid fun: Snap a photo at the decorative backdrop with your family.
• Lantern riddles: Enjoy English and Chinese riddles and win a prize for solving them.
• Five-colour candy box: Experience the traditional Chinese candy box with five different flavours.
• Interactive photo experience:

Guests can immerse themselves in enchanting Lunar New Year-themed backdrops, complete with eight-foot dragon displays. Additionally, an interactive wall awaits, providing a delightful experience for embracing your zodiac sign.

• Upper Canada Mall: to Thursday, Feb. 8 in Market Court
• Hillcrest Mall: to Sunday, Feb. 11 in Centre Court

Visit uppercanadamall.com or hillcrestmall.ca for more information.