Armenian Street comes alive at night in this cozy, lantern-lit scene, where rows of glowing red Chinese lanterns float above the narrow lane and warm streetlights bounce off the old shophouse walls. The bright yellow road markings lead your eye into the distance, while little details (plants by the gates, hanging wires overhead, and small storefront corners) give the street its lived-in Penang character.
Armenian Street Park in George Town was lit up for Chinese New Year 2026 as part of the build-up to the Penang Miaohui celebrations, with the area illuminated during an official lighting-up ceremony. The park’s central decoration highlight is “Xiao Jun,” a cheerful horse installation unveiled at Armenian Park, set as a photo spot for visitors. Surrounding it are six golden “trees” with shimmering leaves and a set of large drums bearing auspicious greetings, adding to the festive display and performance backdrop. These decorations help set the stage for Miaohui 2026 (themed around a “decoding” cultural journey), which organisers describe as a major annual Chinese New Year cultural programme in the Armenian Street heritage enclave with free public admission.
Despite its name, Armenian Street (Lebuh Armenian) was not originally settled by Armenians. It was named after the small Armenian community that once lived there in the early 1800s, who were influential traders and philanthropists in Penang. Interestingly, the famous Eastern & Oriental Hotel was founded by the Armenian Sarkies Brothers, who also established Singapore’s Raffles Hotel.
Today, the street is a UNESCO heritage hotspot known for its murals, cafes, and historic shophouses.
Colorful lanterns adorning Armenian Street during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
In the heart of George Town, a new mural at Armenian Street has turned heads while spreading an important message — “Love Our Turtles”. Launched as part of a month-long campaign (Aug 15 – Sept 14, 2025) by the IKHTIAR Foundation and proudly sponsored by ecoBrown’s, the artwork blends Penang’s cultural vibrancy with a call to protect endangered sea turtles and our oceans. More than just street art, this mural is part of a larger conservation movement, reminding visitors and locals alike that preserving marine life is as vital as celebrating heritage. The artwork is located just across the “Children on Bicycle” mural.
Armenian Park (in George Town) was transformed into a vibrant lantern wonderland during the Pesta Tanglung Tanjong 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival, with glowing lanterns, floral displays, and colourful arches making it a photogenic hotspot. Visitors flocked to the park with phones ready “selfies” or “wefies”, capturing the festive lights and decorative installations.
The atmosphere combined traditional elements (lanterns, mooncake vibes) with modern street festivity, creating a communal space of warmth, visual delight, and cultural celebration.
The 17th annual George Town Heritage Celebrations—themed “Doors and Doorways”—ran from 5–7 July 2025, inviting visitors to step into Penang’s hidden past. The event featured immersive storytelling, artisan workshops (from pottery to traditional snacks), heritage-themed performances, and behind-the-scenes access to eight historic Category 1 heritage buildings. Designed to celebrate George Town’s living traditions, the celebration focuses on cultural connections, community engagement, and heritage education. The event is located at the areas around Armenian Street this year.
A night walk around the heritage area of Armenian Street during Chinese New Year period in 2025.
George Town’s heritage enclave is bursting with festive charm for Chinese New Year 2025. Around 2,000 red lanterns now illuminate 12 streets, including 300 in Armenian Street Park, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. These dazzling decorations light up nightly from 7 pm to midnight, bringing the city alive with a festive glow. This Year of Snake also features a cute Snake mascot at the center of the park.
The lanterns were officially unveiled during a special ceremony attended by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and other dignitaries. Adding to the excitement, the annual Miao Hui celebration, themed “Penang Lang, Let’s Celebrate!”, will feature traditional performances like lion dances and Chinese opera, alongside cultural activities such as calligraphy, tea ceremonies, and paper-cutting. The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors, making it a perfect time to experience the rich traditions and lively spirit of George Town.
Armenian Park in Penang is beautifully illuminated with 300 traditional lanterns to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. This display, organized by the Kampung Kolam MPKK and supported by local leaders, will run for a month, with the main event scheduled for 15th September. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, traditional games, workshops, and a lantern parade on the main event day. Penang’s Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the festival’s importance, emphasizing its role in fostering community and family bonds.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, originated in ancient China over 3,000 years ago during the Shang dynasty. It celebrates the harvest and the full moon, symbolizing family unity and prosperity. The festival is deeply tied to the legend of Chang’e, the moon goddess. Traditionally, people give thanks for the harvest, enjoy mooncakes, and participate in lantern displays. It usually falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month when the moon is at its brightest.
