THE Lunar New Year is almost here and Brisbane's biggest cultural event will present a packed program of cultural events this February.
BrisAsia Festival will present more than 50 events across 10 suburbs from February 1-20.
The festival's diverse program will fuse Asian art, culture and cuisine with live performances by internationally acclaimed artists, outdoor celebrations and intimate cultural encounters.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the festival presented a great opportunity to engage with the city's changing cultural landscape.
"The much-loved BrisAsia Festival has an incredible array of events on offer," he said.
"We are really proud that we can offer such an extensive program for residents to enjoy.
"At a time when international travel may not be on the radar for most people, it's a delight to be able to bring a taste of Asia to Brisbane and celebrate the rich diversity of our community."
Highlights of this year's festival include:
Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Jan 28-29)
While the festival doesn't officially start until February, the party will start a little early, with a celebration of Vietnam's most important and popular festival - Hi ch Tt. This free event will take place at the CJ Greenfield Sports Complex, commencing at 5pm each evening. Attractions will include family activities, food stalls, lion dances, firecrackers, traditional music performances, a traditional costume parade and a martials art performance by Calligraphy.
BrisAsia Launch Party (February 5)
The festival's official launch party will present a cultural spectacular full of light, colour and movement. There will be live performances, DJs, dance, fashion and more. The free event will take place from 6-8pm in Fortitude Valley Hall.
Southside by Night (February 11)
A rev-head's dream, this one-of-a-kind car meet will show off Brisbane's best rides. From Luxury Euros, to JDM's and Exotics. There will also be performances from top DJ's and artists and street food from the community. The free event will take place in the Unidus Community Centre from 5-9pm.
Wer Ya From? (February 11)
This improvised show is based on hilarious true stories of heritage and culture, as told by Big Fork Theatre's Improv in Colour improvisers. The show will take place from 7.30-8.30pm at Big Fork Theatre and tickets are $20.
BrisAsia Laneway Tea Festival (February 12)
This day long festival dedicated to Brisbane's best tea will take over Fish Lane. The inaugural Tea Festival will see the city's best tea makers come together. Visitors will be able to taste all kinds of teas in one place, including everyone's favourite Asian drink, boba-bubble tea! There will also be markets, tea workshops, tastings and music. The free event will take place from 11am-8pm.
Rare Voices (February 19)
This concert will showcase vocal traditions from around the world, presented by internationally acclaimed singers and renowned instrumentalists. The show will feature traditional songs, world rhythms, contemporary indie pop music and collective improvisations. The performance will take place from 7-9:30pm at SunPAC. Concession tickets are $10 plus booking fee.
Satsang Sacred Gathering (February 20)
Join a sacred gathering of musicians and healers from diverse cultural traditions and backgrounds. The program will include guided meditation and musical performances. It will conclude with a community gathering supported by local northside food sellers. The free event will take place from 4-6pm at the Fitzgibbon Community Centre.
For more information on the festival and its program of events click HERE
