It’s time of year again where Chinese New Year is the most important annual event in the Chinese Community as Chinese household all over the world prepare for this festival. On the New Year eve, families and relatives are gathered around to celebrate together and have a reunion dinner. Throughout this Chinese New Year seasons, Penang comes alive with countless events and activities which are worth for you to participate.

This year is different, something new for Penang in this coming Chinese New Year. This is the first ever Chinese New Year countdown celebration organized by Penang State Government in conjunction with My Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2012 (LIVE) that will be held on 22^nd January 2012, 8.30pm-12am.

For the first time, Penang’s Chinese New Year eve celebration will be broadcast on air through Astro AEC channel for the world to see. At Penang City Hall, Esplanade, you will see LED dragon and LED lion dance, LED Chingay, lion dance on stilt and chingay performance as well we local celebrities and dance troupes. Stay tuned to the last bit for the countdown and firework display.

Nonetheless, a series of exciting celebrations has been lined up from the eve of CNY until the 15th day of lunar month. Besides Chief Minister's open house, and the state government open house, we have annual event of CNY Cultural and Heritage Celebration which is anticipate by many, not forgetting Chap Goh Meh (the Chinese Valentines' Day), Kek Lok Si Temple light display, 'Chor So Kong' Deity Birthday with fire watching to predict the prosperity and luck of Penang for the year of Dragon at snake temple, 'Thi Kong' Birthday Celebration and more! Endless events are to make Chinew New Year Celebrations truly enjoyable!