Leeds Merrion Centre celebrates landmark for Chinese New Year festivities
It has proved to be the busiest celebration in the history of the Merrion Centre.
The shopping centre hosted a series of Chinese New Year celebrations earlier this month. And latest figures reveal more than 40,000 people visited across its two main event days to join in the festivities representing more than a 30 per cent year-on-year increase.
Over the full programme period, the Centre recorded 67,459 visitors, reflecting a further +17.80 per cent year-on-year growth, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for cultural experience in Leeds.
Delivered in partnership with key community organisations including Leeds Chinese Community School, New Vision Education, and the Business Confucius Institute at the University of Leeds, the two headline event days delivered an electric atmosphere, as visitors immersed themselves in a dynamic programme of traditional performances, workshops and cultural showcases.
Building on the momentum of previous years, the 2026 celebrations transformed the Centre into a vibrant hub of colour, sound and community spirit.
Guests enjoyed a packed programme of live performances, including the iconic Qi Lin Dance, Tai Chi demonstrations, traditional musical showcases and elegant Hanfu and Qipao fashion displays
James Broughton, head of marketing communications at Town Centre Securities PLC, owners of the Merrion Centre, said: “This year’s Chinese New Year celebrations have surpassed all expectations. Achieving such a high increase across our main event days is a phenomenal result and reflects the growing appetite for cultural experiences in the city.
“We are incredibly proud to provide a platform for such a vibrant event, bringing communities together while also supporting our international businesses. The continued growth of this celebration firmly establishes the Merrion Centre as a cultural destination in Leeds.”
Steven Liu, owner of the authentic Chinese street food operator Eatime at the Merrion Centre, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people enjoy the celebrations this year. The atmosphere across the Centre was vibrant from start to finish, and we were delighted to welcome so many new customers to try our authentic Chinese rotisserie and street food.
“Events like this truly highlight the energy and excitement that make the Merrion Centre such a special place.”