NO REPRO FEE 18/01/2016. Monkeys, Dragons and Lions Launch Dublin Chinese New Year Festival. Today, Monday 18th January, Lord Mayor of Dublin Criona Ni Dhalaigh and the His Excellency Mr. Jianguo Xu, Chinese Ambassador to Ireland launched one of the most colourful and creative festivals in Dublin’s calendar, the Dublin Chinese New Year Festival. With the help of a colourful Chinese Lion & Unicorn, mesmerising Chinese ribbon dancers (Pictured) Christina Chang (15) and Linjia Zheng (5), Dublin 1 the festival was officially launched against the backdrop of the bustling Dublin City Council Fruit & Veg market, St. Michan’s Street . For two weeks, from the 6th February, Dublin will transform into a city of carnivals, culture, celebration and Chinese dragons as the Chinese welcome the Year of the Monkey. Photography: Sasko Lazarov/Phtocall Ireland