While we haven’t yet reached Chinese New Year, as the Year of the Horse starts in February, we have made it to 2026. We will continue throughout this year to round up all the best China-related events in London. This month, there is a collection of events, including several musical performances, although not as many as typical, as everyone stays away from the cold London air.
Please note China Minutes are not affiliated with nor are we endorsing any of the events below. AI is not used in producing this newsletter.
NeZha Musical
What sounds like it will be a very unique take on Nezha, this new musical is inspired by the legendary warrior god of Chinese mythology. With an electrifying score by Duncan Walsh Atkins and a bold new book by Teresa Luo and Jennifer Tang, this production fuses modern musical theatre and rap with East Asian storytelling traditions, bringing to life one of China’s most beloved epic tales — the story of a child hero who dares to challenge fate.
When: Thursday 8th and Friday 9th January
Where: Shaw Theatre
Website: https://shaw-theatre.com/whats-on/nezha
Just Play Mahjong Club
For anyone looking for a game of Mahjong but has no one (or no set) to play with, Dear Asia have you covered. They host regular Mahjong Clubs on Saturdays for people who know how to play and are looking for a table and people to play against.
When: Saturdays, from January 10th
Where: Dear Asia Aldgate Center
Website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/jan-10-just-play-mahjong-club-chinese-american-japanese-styles-tickets-1818790484299
2026 London Youlan Qin Society New Year Yaji Gathering
The London Youlan Qin Society will hold its annual New Year Yaji Gathering this month. The informal salon will bring together players and lovers of music. There will be an open mic for people to play and various cultural activities.
When: 1-3pm Saturday 10th
Where: DL Theatre, SOAS
Website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/2026-london-youlan-qin-society-new-year-yaji-gathering-tickets-1979000742494
Chinese Business and Social Network Winter Social
The Chinese Business and Social Network will be hosting a casual winter social this month, open to everyone whether they have been to events before or are coming for the first time.
When: From 6:30pm, Tuesday 13th
Where: The Reliance, 336 Old Street, London EC1V 9DR
Website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/free-chinese-business-and-social-network-winter-social-tickets-1567758691449
The Sound of Silk and Symphony
Pipa virtuoso and composer Gao Hong reaches a striking new artistic pinnacle with Symphony of Self, a suite of four original concertos that showcase the remarkable expressive range of the pipa. Drawing on the ancient Pudong pipa tradition while embracing the breadth and colour of a full Western orchestra, Gao crafts a richly textured sound.
When: 7 – 9pm, Saturday 17th
Where: Temple Church, EC4Y 7BB
Website: https://www.mosaicseries.com/events/mosaicseries/1956073
Odyssey Social Night
Odyssey, who organise an independent film festival engaging with Greater China via a unique theme each year, host monthly social nights for Chinese filmmakers. The tagline is to connect Chinese filmmakers in and with London.
When: 6:00 – 8:00pm, Thursday 29th
Where: Regent Street Cinema
Website: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/London/Regent-Street-Cinema/Odyssey-Social-Night-London/41021099/
Brunel Arts Lunchtime Concert – Silk & Bamboo Duo
Lots of music this month. At this lunchtime concert renowned Chinese musicians Cheng Yu and Zongpu Lu will play a selection of traditional Chinese instruments including the pipa, guqin and bamboo flutes.
When: 1:10 am – 1:50pm, Friday 30th
Where: The Beldam, Eastern Gateway Building, Brunel University
Website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/brunel-arts-lunchtime-concert-silk-bamboo-duo-tickets-1977607180312
If you like this article why not read: New Year’s Eve at the Museum, A Growing Cultural Trend in China
