Geishas and dragons took to the streets of Romford on Saturday afternoon (January 21) as the town centre celebrated the Chinese New Year. 

Organised by Romford BID, visitors to Romford Market were treated to performances ranging from traditional Chinese lion performers to fan dancers and stilt walkers. 

Chinese food was also available from Wokabout, with live music among the other entertainment on-show throughout the afternoon. 

Also known as the Lunar New Year, the event is one of the biggest in the Chinese calendar. Each year is represented by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese calendar, with 2023, which began on January 22, the year of the rabbit. 

Romford Recorder: Free food sampling from Wokabout with owner, DaveFree food sampling from Wokabout with owner, Dave (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Romford Recorder: Ruijun Hu ran a calligraphy workshop at the eventRuijun Hu ran a calligraphy workshop at the event (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Romford Recorder: Stilt walkers were also among the performersStilt walkers were also among the performers (Image: Sandra Rowse)

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Julie Frost, Romford BID director, said: “We are beyond thrilled at how well our very first Chinese New Year celebration went on Saturday.  

“It was such a vibrant, authentic event that all ages and backgrounds could enjoy. The event was busy from start to finish, and the public especially loved the performances by the stilt walking geishas and Chinese dragons. Even the weather was spectacular.  

“A special thank you to everyone involved and I really hope we can bring this event back next year – perhaps even bigger.” 

Romford Recorder: The Chinese music ensemble, from SOAS University of LondonThe Chinese music ensemble, from SOAS University of London (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Romford Recorder: Face painting celebrating 2023 as the year of the rabbitFace painting celebrating 2023 as the year of the rabbit (Image: Sandra Rowse)