It’s the Year of the Rabbit and as Edinburghers prepare to celebrate Chinese New Year, St James Quarter has unveiled a lively line-up of celebrations happening this weekend. On Saturday, January 21, the grandeur shopping spot will host a variety of Chinese New Year-themed activities, including a traditional Lion Dance procession.
The dance will be performed by the talented team at Yee’s Hung Ga Kung Fu Edinburgh, the Lion Dance is commonly performed during Chinese New Year to bring good luck. Guests are invited to enjoy two performances at 12pm and 1pm on Register Square.
St James Quarter will also be taking part in the traditional act of gift giving that is associated with Chinese New Year. Lucky shoppers will have the chance to get their hands on a limited number of red envelopes including gift cards, symbolising good wishes and luck for the year ahead. The said enveloped will be handed out by the Guest Services team on Level 1 between 12pm and 4pm and can be redeemed at retailers within the Quarter.
John Lewis will also be part of the celebrations, inviting guests to learn the intricate art of Chinese calligraphy and create their own red banner for the Lunar New Year on Level 1 of its store from 2pm. What is more, brands including Charlotte Tilbury (located within H Beauty), LEGO, L’Occitane and Coach will be offering Chinese New Year inspired limited-edition items. And for those wanting to tuck into traditional Asian cuisine, Thai Express Kitchen will be offering 20% off food between January 20 and 27.
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “Edinburgh is the multicultural hub for Scotland, and Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to experience the different cultures and traditions that we have here in the city.”
“We hope that as many of our guests as possible will get involved in the exciting Chinese New Year activities we have planned at St James Quarter on Saturday, and we look forward to welcoming guests to The Quarter to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with us.”
Plus, there are plenty of exciting wee spots to explore around St James, such as El Perro Negro for juicy burgers, Haute Dolci with its chocolate on tap or the world’s most instagrammable cafe, EL&N.