Sat 10 Feb 2024

Chinese New Year in St. Marks Square!

From 11:30 to 13:00
Location: Piazza San Marco
Address: Piazza San Marco - Venezia, 30124 Italia (Directions)

The events of Venice Carnival 2024 may be delayed, suspended, or cancelled, in case of weather conditions – verified at the specific sites and on the spot – that compromise a safe performance.

In these cases, it will be promptly communicated through on-site and web/social communication channels.

In occasion of Chinese New Year, a traditional, an exciting traditional performance in St. Mark’s Square!

Rendezvous at St. Mark’s Square on the 10th February from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm and on the 11th February from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm with the traditional Chinese Parade featuring the Dragon Dance and the Lion Dance.

Also, don’t miss an in-depth look at China’s millennial culture with a meeting dedicated to Chinese Poems and a Traditional Chinese Music Concert.


The dragon dance is performed to correspond with the Chinese new year as a wish for good luck and longevity. This dance is performed by an experienced dance troupe, whose job is to imitate the sinuous movements of the dragon, whose ribbon-like body is supported by the numerous dancers with long wooden poles held in their hands. The dragon dance is led by a bead representing the moon, a symbol of wisdom and the energy of the universe. It too is carried by a dancer on a long staff with which he guides the dance itself and gives direction to the dragon. Toward the end of the dance, the dragon itself, with deliberate undulating movements, tries to reach the sphere to devour it. The dance is always accompanied by music played by drums, cymbals and many other traditional Chinese instruments, thus creating a cheerful and lively atmosphere.

The lion dance is a traditional Chinese dance performed mainly during celebrations of certain holidays, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year, representing auspiciousness of wealth and abundance. In the lion dance we find two actor-dancers moving the lion costume. The first moves the upper part, which includes the mouth, eyes, front legs and head, while the second moves the hind legs, pelvis and tail. Both move following the musical background consisting of a drum, which serves to mark the rhythm and movements of the dancers.

Cadences of the East: Tradition and Modernity in Chinese Dance.

This extraordinary performance combines the timeless charm of Chinese tradition with the vibrancy and innovation of modern dance. “Cadences of the East” is a compelling journey that spans the centuries, gracefully blending classical Chinese dance movements with fresh, contemporary interpretations. The dancers, true masters of the art, convey the beauty and grace of cultural traditions through engaging and dynamic choreography.

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