Year of the Pig at the Chinese New Year festival in Box Hill - Saturday 2 February 2019 Central Box Hill will be filled with food, music and a spectacular traditional parade during the 14 hour event running from 11am - 1pm The showcase of Chinese culture and unique style of celebration will include activities and entertainment for all ages. Whitehorse City Council is proud to once again support the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse as it brings an exciting program of entertainment and stalls to one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations in Melbourne. Chinese New Year festivities are full of sound, colour, dance and sweet treats to mark the start of another year full of promise. The stunning Parade of Choi Sun (Chinese God of Fortune) will entertain, while a visit to the giant Buddha statue will give some a chance to pray for a prosperous, safe year to come. Dragon dancers weave through the crowd to the beat of drums. The festival showcases wonderful music, singing and dancing from our local community. Festival goers can enjoy games, rides, firecracker displays, music and performances. Market stalls will sell Chinese New Year souvenirs and merchandise, and there will be a market of unique and authentic Asian cuisine. The festival will be held in and around the Box Hill Mall and along the section of Whitehorse Road adjoining the Mall. This cross-cultural event is ‘Waste Wise' and Council is working with the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse to encourage stallholders and visitors to reduce and recycle waste. Volunteers will assist visitors as they recycle their waste at the appropriate bins at the event. SBS Radio will broadcast live from the event. Entertainment Program The Main Stage (located along Whitehorse Rd near Clisby Court) will be hosting a full entertainment program. Stay tuned for more information. The Year of the Pig The Year of the Pig is the twelfth sign in the Chinese Zodiac. Those born in the year of the Pig are usually considered happy, honest and brave. They are not afraid of the difficulties of life with shining characteristics. 'Pigs' have been born in the following years: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019