Dragons, colourful lions, music and the smell of traditional food took over Praça da Liberdade, in downtown São Paulo, on 31 January. The capital's most traditional Asian cultural neighbourhood has already entered into the spirit of Chinese New Year 2026, although the official date of the event is celebrated on 17 February.

The celebration is part of the 21st edition of the Chinese New Year festival in São Paulo, which brings together residents and visitors to celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse. Chinese New Year is one of the oldest celebrations in the world, with over 4,000 years of history. The date is marked by rituals of renewal, prosperity and good luck wishes that have been passed down through generations.

In addition to cultural performances, the event in Liberdade brought together stalls with traditional foods, handicrafts and themed activities. Among the gastronomic highlights are guiosas, stuffed Chinese dumplings that symbolise fortune and prosperity — a tradition for those who want to get into the spirit of Chinese New Year.

(Source: Globo, on 31 January)