Vanislander / Festivals and Events / Celebrate Asian Heritage Month at Awakening Chinatown 2025 in Victoria

Celebrate Asian Heritage Month at Awakening Chinatown 2025 in Victoria

As the final Sunday of Asian Heritage Month approaches, Victoria’s Chinatown prepares to unveil a celebration steeped in tradition, artistry, and community spirit. On May 25, 2025, the storied streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown will once again resonate with the vibrant rhythms of Awakening Chinatown. This annual festival promises an immersive experience that honours the past while embracing the present, inviting visitors to partake in a day where history and contemporary culture converge.

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Event Overview

Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: Lower Fisgard Street, Victoria’s Historic Chinatown
Admission: Free and family-friendly
Organized by: Victoria Chinatown Museum Society (VCMS)
Lead Sponsor: RBC
Awakening Chinatown 2025 marks the fourth year of this vibrant festival, celebrating the rich tapestry of Chinese Canadian heritage. Set against the backdrop of one of North America's most architecturally intact Chinatowns, the event offers a unique opportunity to explore cultural traditions through performances, interactive activities, and community engagement.

Event Schedule

Time	Performance/Activity
12:30 PM	Opening Ceremonies
1:00 PM	Awakening the Lions and Lion Dance
1:15 PM	Happy Drum Group
1:40 PM	Harpist Michelle Kwan
2:00 PM	Victoria Chinese Opera Club
2:20 PM	Chinese Dance Victoria
2:40 PM	Happy Drum Group
3:00 PM	Harpist Michelle Kwan
3:20 PM	Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club – Kung Fu Demonstration
3:40 PM	Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club – Lion Performance
4:00 PM	Hip Hop Artist Hua Li
4:40 PM	Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club
4:55 PM	Opera Performances by Alex Chen, Guest Appearance by Shelley Shen

Time

Performance/Activity

12:30 PM

Opening Ceremonies

1:00 PM

Awakening the Lions and Lion Dance

1:15 PM

Happy Drum Group

1:40 PM

Harpist Michelle Kwan

2:00 PM

Victoria Chinese Opera Club

2:20 PM

Chinese Dance Victoria

2:40 PM

Happy Drum Group

3:00 PM

Harpist Michelle Kwan

3:20 PM

Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club – Kung Fu Demonstration

3:40 PM

Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club – Lion Performance

4:00 PM

Hip Hop Artist Hua Li

4:40 PM

Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club

4:55 PM

Opera Performances by Alex Chen, Guest Appearance by Shelley Shen

What to Expect

Traditional Arts

Contemporary Performances

Interactive Activities

Cultural Exhibits

Community Engagement

Visitor Information

Getting There

Victoria’s Chinatown is easily accessible by public transit, cycling, or walking from downtown Victoria.

Parking

Limited street parking is available; consider using nearby public parking facilities.

Amenities

Local eateries and shops will be open, offering a taste of Chinatown’s culinary delights and unique merchandise.

Accessibility

The event is designed to be accessible to all visitors.

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