Celebrate the Year of the Ox online with a whole host of Chinese New Year activities, videos and performances.

We may not be able to celebrate in person at the National Maritime Museum, but you can still take part in all our fantastic virtual events for free!

We'll be adding to this page in the build-up to the New Year, so check back for more great ideas and resources.

The Legend of Nian

Join Deaf storyteller Deppa Shastri as she tells the story of Nian, a legandary monster. Discover why red is a good luck colour in China and why people wear brightly coloured clothes to celebrate the New Year. 

This story is in British Sign Language, with voiceover interpretation and captions.

Character Encounters: James Robson

Meet James Robson, cook on board the Cutty Sark. Discover what life was like on board the Cutty Sark and find out what’s for dinner.

Curious Collections with Chinese Connections

Find out about fascinating objects from the National Maritime Museum collections that have Chinese connections.

Chinese collections and connections

Craft activities to try at home

Explore the relationship between China and Britain and the Museum's collections with fun family workshops, suitable for all ages and abilities. Click here to learn how to make a hongbao and a lucky fish poster.

Find more family craft activities

Chinese astronomy

Join our Chinese Community show to hear an astronomer from the Royal Observatory Greenwich explore topics in ancient and modern Chinese astronomy, including the Sun, Moon, stars and space exploration. 

Book tickets

Chinese New Year facts and traditions

Find out more about how and why we celebrate Chinese New Year with our local partners the Newham Chinese Association. From dances and decoration to food and festivities, what are the origins of new year celebrations today? 

Learn more about Chinese New Year

Chinese tea traditions and ceremonies

Tai Chi and Qigong demonstration

The ancient Chinese practices of Tai Chi and Qigong combine slow, deliberate movements, meditation, and breathing exercises. Join Tai Chi and Qigong specialist Chew Yeen Lawes as she presents a selection of movements for you to follow from these traditional martial arts.

This 10-minute instructional video will exercise your body and mind as well enrich your knowledge of traditional Chinese culture.

This video has been made in collaboration with Global fusion Arts and Music.