Lion dance lights up trading floor as market community embraces return of popular celebration
The Melbourne Market community has celebrated Lunar New Year in style.
The Chinese Youth Society of Melbourne (CYSM) performed a traditional lion dance across the central market’s trading floor this morning (24 January).
More than 35 CYSM members traveled throughout the market site, dancing, drumming and performing traditional blessings.
The Melbourne Market Authority has organised Lunar New Year celebrations at the market since 2011, however, the last two years were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The Melbourne Market is a colourful place at all times of the year,” said Melbourne Market Authority chief executive Mark Maskiell. “Multiculturalism in Melbourne has been a key driver for the variety in product lines we see and enjoy today. It’s great to be able to acknowledge this diversity by celebrating Lunar New Year.
“The performance creates a great atmosphere in the market and never fails to draw a crowd. The market community enjoy taking part in the celebrations, making offerings to the lion seeking good fortune and prosperity for the year to come.”
The market was flush with a variety of popular Asian fruits, including lychees and dragon fruit, in the lead up to Lunar New Year. Popular gifting items such as small seedless watermelons, pineapples with crowns and green leafy lettuce were also in plentiful supply.
