Media event highlights Toronto’s first Lunar New Year fireworks celebration

The Toronto Spring Festival hosted a Media and Influencer Day Tuesday, offering an exclusive preview of the festivities, including the highly anticipated inaugural fireworks display set to light up Nathan Phillips Square this Saturday.

The festival, which celebrates the Year of the Snake, combines creativity with traditional Chinese culture, featuring a packed schedule of activities, performances, and attractions.

“This is an amazing winter festival with so much to enjoy,” said Blur Wu, founder of Spark Media and the event’s initiator and master director. “We hope today’s preview helps set the tone for an exciting and meaningful celebration.”

Festival highlights include an ice-skating showcase with performances by the University of Toronto Ice Skating Club, scheduled for 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There will also be traditional Chinese performances like Peking opera and face-changing acts, along with a modern twist with Chinese-style electronic music.

The Echo Market, making its debut at the festival this year, is described by organizers as a lively and creative marketplace that combines tradition with a modern touch.

“This year, the Echo Market will have a more youthful and creative vibe, showcasing creations from trendy Chinese designers,” said Mia Yang, the Echo Market’s organizer. “We’ve also added nostalgic elements, such as handwritten Spring Festival couplets and handcrafted items. It’s a chance to relive the festive charm of childhood New Year celebrations.”

The festival will culminate in a fireworks display, the first of its kind in Toronto for Lunar New Year. Organizers say the display is deeply symbolic for the city’s Chinese community, fostering connection and unity.

“Fireworks represent hope for a brighter year ahead,” Wu said. 

“For those of us who came to Canada as international students, it’s incredible to now be celebrating the Lunar New Year at such an iconic location as Nathan Phillips Square. This is a moment of pride and joy for everyone.”

The festival is designed to bring people together, not just within the Chinese community but across all cultural backgrounds. From cultural performances and creative marketplaces to the spectacular fireworks display, the festival is designed to showcase the richness and vibrancy of Lunar New Year traditions.

The festival will take place on Saturday, January 25, from noon to 11 p.m. EST, inviting everyone to take part in this vibrant celebration of joy and cultural exchange.

Celebrate Lunar New Year with OMNI TV

Mark the Year of the Snake with OMNI TV’s special program, “Celebrating the Year of the Snake – OMNI 2025 CNY Special.” Hosted by Wei Lee, Kenneth Li, Jie Yang, and Ellen Ma in both Cantonese and Mandarin, the program features traditional dances, festive cooking, lucky draws, and vibrant musical performances.

Tune in on Wednesday, January 29, at 5:30 p.m. ET/PT/MT, with two replays airing on Sunday, February 2, at 6 p.m., and Friday, February 7, at 5:30 p.m.