HARARE is poised to make history as it hosts its first-ever city-wide Chinese New Year Carnival, a vibrant people-to-people cultural exchange set for February 7 and 8 at the scenic Sam Levy’s Village in Borrowdale.
Speaking to NewsDay Life & Style, Bright Mangomeli, of the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre (CZEC), promised a memorable and inclusive experience that blends culture, commerce and community.
The carnival marks the Year of the Fire Horse and is designed as a free-to-attend event that welcomes families, creatives, entrepreneurs and culture enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Mangomeli confirmed that a diverse mix of Chinese and Zimbabwean business exhibitors have signed up, transforming the venue to a lively cultural marketplace.
Visitors can expect interactive games, themed food courts, curated market stalls, live stage shows and colourful parade moments that reflect the shared values of cooperation, creativity and mutual prosperity.
The landmark event is jointly organised by CZEC, Jacaranda Culture Media Corporation and the Zimbabwe Chinese Business Association, highlighting a growing commitment to strengthening cultural diplomacy and business collaboration between the two nations.
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Entertainment will be a major highlight, with theatrical dragon dances, music and cross-cultural performances anchoring the programme.
Mangomeli revealed that the DreamStar Troupe, which will be featuring celebrated alumni from previous Dream Star competitions, will take centre stage.
Performers include household names such as Fusion 5 Mangwiro, Nyasha David, Yambutso, Tsoro Arts, alongside guest appearances from Chinese creatives, reinforcing the carnival’s intercultural spirit.
Officially ushered in on February 17, 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse represents a rare 60-year cycle in the Chinese zodiac.
Symbolising energy, ambition and transformation, the Fire Horse is associated with bold action, innovation and forward momentum as strong values that resonate strongly with Zimbabwe’s evolving creative and business landscape.
Mangomeli noted that the carnival responds to the expanding footprint of the China-Zimbabwe co-operation.
With over 1 500 Chinese companies established in Zimbabwe by 2025, organisers saw an opportunity to deepen engagement beyond boardrooms, creating accessible platforms where businesses and communities interact directly.
“As organisers, we are encouraging partners, families and friends to attend in large numbers and support this first-of-its-kind city-wide celebration.
"We have elevated the event to meet global standards while keeping it rooted in local culture,” Mangomeli said.
Globally, the 2026 Chinese New Year will be celebrated across Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas, with major parades, lantern festivals and cultural showcases planned in cities such as Beijing, Zhejiang, Hong Kong, London, Rome, Bangkok, Los Angeles and Johannesburg.
Millions worldwide will take part in traditional rituals, public festivities and cultural exhibitions, underscoring the Lunar New Year’s role as one of the most widely celebrated cultural events on the planet.
Mongameli said as Harare joined Chinese New Year global calendar activities, the city’s Chinese New Year Carnival stood as a powerful symbol of shared heritage, cultural exchange and the people-to-people connections championed under the Belt and Road Initiative.