Chinese New Year 2026

🎉 Chinese New Year 2026 – Year of the Horse 🐎

Free Family Activities Across Darlington

Join us as we celebrate Chinese New Year 2026, welcoming the Year of the Horse with a vibrant programme of free family-friendly activities, workshops, and performances across the town centre.

🧧 Creative Workshops & Family Activities (11am – 3pm)

🎨 Chinese New Year Decorations With Yvonne Preston, Scrapstore Studio Get hands-on and help create colourful decorations inspired by the Year of the Horse. 

Cornmill Shopping Centre – by Toyland, bottom of the escalators

🖼 Chinese New Year Print Activity Create your own festive print to take home with The Littlest Falcon.

Queen Street Shopping Centre

🖍 Colouring Activities & Selfie Spot Enjoy themed colouring sheets and grab a selfie with our Chinese New Year backdrop.

Newcastle Building Society Branch (during opening hours)

🐉 Make-Your-Own Dragon Mask Create your very own dragon mask—perfect for little ones who love crafting.

 Indoor Market Hall

✍️ Calligraphy & Origami Learn traditional techniques and try your hand at Chinese calligraphy and paper folding.

House of Fraser, Lower Ground Floor

🐲 Live Dragon, Lion & Kung Fu Performances (12pm – 3pm)

Experience the energy and spectacle of the Dragon Dance, Two Lion Dances, and Kung Fu demonstrations—a highlight of the celebration. Chi Mo Martial Arts Centre Team *Please note exact time may vary