GEORGE TOWN: The celebrations spanned 12 streets at the heritage enclave here with lion and dragon dances captivating spectators with their acrobatic movements and pulsating rhythms.
There were also specially choreographed dance routines, retelling age-old stories with contemporary moves.
This was Penang’s Chinese New Year celebrations (Miaohui) 2026, which drew massive crowds to the city on Saturday.
Though Miaohui literally translates to “temple fair”, its activities are cultural rather than religious, emphasising traditional arts, performances, crafts and community engagement.
Besides the vibrant performances and activities that highlighted cherished customs, attendees had the chance to try traditional crafts from calligraphy to paper cutting and heritage cuisine, giving them tangible connections to the city’s cultural roots.
Besides the Chinese associations, the celebration also included Masjid Lebuh Acheh and the Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple for the first time in the spirit of cultural exchange.
Retiree Lee Siew Heong, 50, who attended the event with her daughter Belinda Loh Zhi Ying, 14, said it was fun to explore the many offerings.
“It’s a rare opportunity to reconnect and experience olden day traditions and practices which are slowly disappearing from modern life.”
Chinese tourist Wang Yikun, 27, said large-scale public celebrations like this are less common back in her native Shandong province.
“Here, everything and everyone is brought together for one big occasion, which makes it much more exciting,” she said.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the Miaohui – first held in 1999 and now an annual highlight for Chinese New Year – had grown into more than just a street festival.
“It has become a platform to share our community’s history, stories and values with younger generations.
“But more importantly, it shows a better way forward – through culture, understanding and friendship.”
He reaffirmed the state government’s continued support for the festival, pledging a commitment of RM500,000 for its organisation every year.
The office of Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing also announced a contribution of RM150,000, which was handed over by Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin.
