Happy (Lunar) New Year

A view from above of many red chinese-style lanterns strung in rows.

The Lunar New Year is also known as Chinese New Year – although it is also celebrated in Vietnam and Korea, as well as by people around the world.

For example, in Vietnam it is known as Tết Nguyên Đán (or just Tết), meaning “Festival of the First Day”.

Red is regarded as a lucky colour. It is common for older people to give younger people money in red envelopes, as a way of wishing luck and prosperity.

It is a time for family and friends to get together.

In the Chinese tradition, 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. If you are born in a Dragon year, it is believed that you are more likely to have good luck, prosperity and positive energy.

There will be a parade through central London on 11 February.

Happy Hanukkah!

Happy Hanukkah Candelabra
Happy Hanukkah

From Thursday evening, we have been in the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights.

It commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in 164 BCE by Judah Maccabee, whose family ruled an autonomous Jewish kingdom for about 100 years, until they were conquered by the Romans. It is said that a lamp was required to burn through the night to help purify the Temple. Only a small amount of olive oil could be found, but miraculously it burned for eight nights.

Continue reading “Happy Hanukkah!”

The Open House Festival 2023

The annual Open House Festival starts on Wednesday 06 September 2023 and goes until Sunday 17 September.

This festival is dedicated to making architecture and neighbourhoods more open, accessible and equitable.

Having started out as Open House weekend, it has grown greatly, but at its core is still the aim of giving the public a chance to see inside and learn about some of the great architecture in this city.

Outside of the Festival, Open City also run walking tours and other events.

Some events are free, and some require pre-booking, but there should be something for everyone.

View the programme online.

Open House Festival