It is too politically correct to Modern Communism to call it "Lunar New Year" and not allow "Chinese New Year" to be also used. In this country it was called Chinese New Year, because the original Chinese immigrants in the 19th century found it generally too difficult to explain in English to westerners, especially in Little Bourke Street itself, what the celebration was. So the official name of the festival was the "Chinese New Year Festival" from the beginning until the mid-90s when Crown's alternative private festival promoted itself as a "Lunar New Year festival", instead of "Chinese New Year".... Let Little Bourke Street keep it's old traditions! Including the old name of the festival! The Little Bourke Street festival is heavily affiliated with older traditions, such as their association with the anti-communism movement (Through the Kumintang supported Chinese Youth Society of Melbourne, who provide the more experienced Lion Dance team) and the Kumintang (it's the ROC flag that is used at the festival). These are obviously somewhat at odds with the other more modernised festivals, as is the common name of the festival.

They are celebrating the Lunar New Year as do many cultures.. the only one seeking attention is Beef and Black bean for writing such a dumb thing!

The lunar new year is celebrated in many non-Chinese countries hence the term Lunar New Year. Christmas is not wholly owned by Christians either. 25th December was the birthday of the god Mithras in middle east history, nothing like changing the facts to suit a new religion. How a notable event can be celebrated on a sliding calendar that depends on the phases of the moon, like Easter, is a mystery, but millions of people seem happy about it!

It is stupid to have another Public holiday for new year, seems to me they just want to get attention and be 'different'. Why can't they just have the Chinese day on 31-Jan (New Years' Day)?

Why is everyone so political? Just enjoy the fun, the colour and the food associated with the festivities being held around Melbourne. It's a time spent with family and friends and to enjoy the multi-culturalism that is on offer. If you want to get really technical about it, half of Asia was from Chinese origin. We should all just chill and enjoy a dumpling or two.