Toronto expands Lunar New Year with massive fireworks next month

Kicking off the Chinese New Year, the weekend-long Toronto Spring Festival returns as a warm celebration of the city’s cultural mosaic, designed to honour diversity and community. Torontonians can expect the usual fan favourites, lively performances, curated cultural showcases from neighbourhood groups, and plenty of stalls serving the ethnic foods everyone comes for.

Fireworks are back on the bill after last year’s first-ever display at City Hall drew plenty of cheers, and organisers have scheduled another colourful show for Feb. 15 at 9 p.m. The burst of light over the downtown skyline is meant to crown the evening’s festivities.

Lineups and specific showcases are still being kept under wraps, but organisers say they are preparing for nearly 80,000 visitors over the weekend. Strong demand has pushed this year’s event from one day to two, giving more space and time for people to enjoy the programming.

More details will be released in the coming weeks, and anyone interested is encouraged to keep an eye on the event's official website for updates and announcements. That is where confirmed schedules and any changes will first appear.

Lunar New Year falls on Feb. 17 this year, ushering in the Year of the Horse, a sign traditionally associated with success, liberation and independence. Many Toronto families and community groups will use the holiday to gather, share meals and wish one another well.

The Toronto Spring Festival takes place Feb. 14 and 15, running daily from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W., putting the celebration right in the heart of the city’s civic centre.