Awakening Chinatown 2023

On the 21st Anniversary of Asian Heritage Month, the Victoria Chinese Museum Society presents the second annual “Awakening Chinatown” event, May 28 from noon to 5 pm in Victoria’s Historic Chinatown.

The lively afternoon of festivities promises something for everyone including kung-fu, dance, music, arts, and crafts. Grab a seat by the main stage to enjoy a stunning variety of performances. Or explore some of Chinatown’s diverse shops and eateries while wandering along Fisgard Street traffic-free, which will be temporarily closed for the event between Store and Government Streets.

This year’s Traditional Celebrations include:

- Dotting of the Eyes ceremony to “Awaken the Lions”, an allegorical awakening of Chinatown itself,

- The captivating rhythm and flow of traditional martial arts and lion dancing as demonstrated by the Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club,

- The Lion Parade to bring good fortune and prosperity to the businesses of Chinatown,

- The eternal elegance of traditional Chinese dance as performed by the Victoria Chinese Culture Club Dancers, directed by Dr. Hua Lin,

- Performances by the Happy Drum Group and Victoria Society of Chinese Performing Arts - Evergreen (Senior’s) Choir,

- House of Rice Chinese drag performers, Sunshine Fitness Group, magician Justin Louie and the Victoria Chinese Opera Club,

- Performances by Luka Kawabata, and Alex Chen of Pacific Opera Victoria from Chinatown’s historic balconies,

- Opportunities for families to learn Chinese arts and crafts, play Chinese games, and enjoy demonstrations of Chinese calligraphy and fortune telling.