Celebrating Chinese New Year in the Hunter Valley

As Chinese New Year rolls around, the Hunter Valley leans into the spirit of celebration with good food, fresh air and a sense of occasion. This year welcomes the Year of the Horse – a symbol of energy, movement and adventure – making it a fitting excuse to get out of routine and mark the new lunar year somewhere that invites you to slow down, look around and enjoy the ride.

From yum cha lunches and a special dumpling and noodle night to hot air balloon rides and heading out on horseback through vineyards there are plenty of ways to celebrate the Chinese New Year in the Hunter Valley. Here’s how to welcome the Lunar New Year with flavour, fresh perspective and a little local flair.

Chinese New Year Dumpling and Noodle Night at Legends Restaurant 

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a vibrant Dumpling & Noodle Buffet Dinner on Tuesday 17th February at Legends Restaurant located in Chateau Elan at the Vintag. Enjoy an abundant spread of handcrafted dumplings and wok-style noodle dishes, designed for sharing and savouring in a relaxed, welcoming setting overlooking The Vintage Golf Course. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, family or colleagues and celebrate the season of prosperity and good fortune. For a sneak peak at the full menu, see here. $59 per person.  Bookings are essential. To book click here. 

Yum Cha at voco Krikton Park

Celebrate Lunar New Year with the Hunter Valley’s only Yum Cha experience, set against sweeping views of the Brokenback Ranges. Share steaming dumplings, crisp spring rolls and sweet treats in a relaxed, elegant setting at Locavore Restaurant.

To mark Lunar New Year, enjoy Yum Cha for a special celebratory price for a limited time. Every Wednesday to Sunday from the 13th to 28th February, enjoy a special Lunar New Year price for Yum Cha, Adults $66, children $30. Click here to book.

Balloon Aloft

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a Balloon Aloft hot air balloon flight over the Hunter Valley vineyards. To mark the Year of the Horse, Balloon Aloft is offering a special gift to each booking to fly with us on Chinese New Year. To book your flight and take your celebrations to new heights, click here. 

Horse Riding

If you’re leaning into the spirit of the Year of the Horse, there’s no better place to do it than out among the vines and open paddocks of the Hunter Valley. Hunter Valley Horses offers relaxed, guided trail rides through vineyards and bushland, ideal for beginners and confident riders alike. For something a little more classic, Hunter Valley Classic Carriages and Prestige Horse Carriages bring old-world charm with horse-drawn carriage experiences, perfect for slow sightseeing and special occasions. If adventure is more your pace, Hunter Valley Horse Riding and Adventures combines scenic rides with a sense of exploration, getting you properly off the beaten track. Whether you’re riding or rolling, it’s a fitting way to welcome the Lunar New Year — embracing movement, connection and a fresh start, Hunter Valley style. Click here to find out more. 

Audrey Wilkinson

To celebrate Chinese New year, Audrey Wilkinson is honouring the Year of the Fire horse with wine specials available exclusively at their winery throughout the month of February. Special include discounts on Winemakers Moscato and the ‘Light horseman’ wines, plus the Audrey Wilkinson will be handing out some fun fortune cookies.

This blog was created by the Hunter Valley wine and Tourism Association.