Awakening Chinatown 2025 Celebrates Culture, Community, and Heritage

The streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown will come alive with the sights and sounds of Chinese Canadian culture once again on Sunday, May 25, 2025, from noon to 5:30 PM, when Awakening Chinatown returns for its fourth year. 

Organized by the Victoria Chinatown Museum Society (VCMS) in partnership with Lead Sponsor RBC and Chinatown businesses, this annual celebration marks the last Sunday of Asian Heritage Month with a day filled with performances, cultural experiences, and community engagement, taking place on and around lower Fisgard Street in the heart of Victoria’s Chinatown.

Building on the success of previous years, this year’s festival promises to be even more vibrant. From traditional Chinese dance and opera to modern cultural expressions, the event reflects both the deep history and evolving diversity of Chinatown.

“Awakening Chinatown is about honouring our past while celebrating the present and future of this incredible community,” says Grace Wong Sneddon, Chair of VCMS. “Each year, we see more people come together to share in the stories, traditions, and energy that make Victoria’s Chinatown such a special place.”

A Legacy of History and Cultural Pride

As the oldest Chinatown in Canada and one of the most architecturally intact in North America, Victoria’s Chinatown remains a testament to the resilience and contributions of Chinese Canadians. VCMS launched this festival in 2022 to bring greater awareness to these contributions and to build momentum for a permanent museum dedicated to sharing the stories of early Chinese immigrants who helped shape Victoria.

A Day Full of Performances and Activities

Festival-goers can expect an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary performances, including:

• Chinese opera, dance, and drumming showcasing centuries-old artistry
• Live vocal performances spanning classical and modern Chinese music
• Magic shows and theatrical acts featuring local Asian performers
• Calligraphy, fortune telling, and hands-on arts and crafts for all ages
• Cultural exhibits and storytelling sessions highlighting Chinatown’s history
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with local community organizations

Join the Celebration

This free, family-friendly event is open to all, inviting attendees to explore Chinatown’s past and present through an immersive cultural experience. 

Whether you come to watch a breathtaking performance, take part in an interactive demonstration, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, Awakening Chinatown 2025 is set to be an unforgettable celebration.

Stay updated on festival details here, and follow along on social media for announcements leading up to the big day.

Thank you to our Lead Sponsor

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