Bangkok

This year’s Chinese New Year is also an occasion to celebrate the 36th anniversary of Sino-Thai diplomatic relationships (an auspicious number) so there are many celebrations around town. The TAT official Chinese New Year celebration will be at CentralWorld on Feb 3, featuring dragon shows, fireworks, a food fair and a speech by China’s Minister of Culture. For a more original (and less formal) vibe, head to Yaowarat for its Chinese New Year Festival on Feb 3-4, noon-midnight from Chalerm Phrakiat gate to Chalermburi Intersection. Get to see several cultural performances fron China, a food fair and a pair of jade rabbits gifted from China. The official opening ceremony will be in the presence of HRH Princess Sirindhorn on Feb 3. Also, you can enjoy performances by more than 200 performers from 56 Chinese ethnic groups, held daily on Feb 8-10 at the National Theater.

Elsewhere

Travel out of town to see Chinese communities outside of Yaowarat.
Nakhon Sawan. Through Feb 7 throughout Nakorn Sawan town center.
Nakhon Ratchasima. Feb 3-5 at Thao Suranari Monument courtyard.
Ayutthaya. Feb 4-8 at Chao Phrom market.
Suphanburi. Feb 3-7 at Descendants Dragon Museum.
Ratchaburi. Feb 2-6 at Ratchaburi National Museum.
Phuket. Feb 8-10 at Chalerm Phrakiat Park and Thalang Rd.
Chiang Mai. Feb 4-6 at Trok Lao Cho.
Pattaya. Feb 3-5 at Pho Na Klua courtyard.
Hat Yai. Feb 3-5 at Srinakorn School courtyard.