Grand Chinese New Year Gala Celebrates Terracotta Warriors Exhibition Finale in Perth
In a spectacular fusion of culture and celebration, the WA Museum Boola Bardip hosted a magnificent Chinese New Year Gala to bid farewell to its record-breaking Terracotta Warriors exhibition and welcome the Year of the Fire Horse. The event, held on March 3, 2026, drew more than 500 elegantly dressed guests for an evening of tradition, art, and community spirit.
A Night of Elegance and Diplomacy
The gala embraced a black-tie dress code with accents of gold, setting a luxurious tone for the festivities. Among the distinguished attendees were Chinese Ambassador Xiao Qian, Western Australian Premier Roger Cook, and numerous leaders from the state's business community. Their presence underscored the event's significance in fostering cultural and diplomatic ties between China and Australia.
The evening commenced with a vibrant traditional lion dance, a symbolic performance meant to usher in good luck and prosperity for the new year. Following this opening act, guests were invited to explore the Terracotta Warriors exhibition one final time. This remarkable display attracted over 323,000 visitors during its tenure in Perth, making it a historic highlight for the museum.
High-Profile Guests and Memorable Moments
The gala featured a who's who of Perth's social and political circles, with notable figures captured in photographs throughout the night. Key attendees included:
- Carrie Li, adding a touch of glamour to the proceedings.
- Adrian and Amee Third, who mingled among the crowd.
- Marina Shu, showcasing elegant attire.
- Mark McGowan and Patrick Gorman, representing political leadership.
- Xu Li, contributing to the cultural ambiance.
- Coralie Bishop, Alec Coles, Roger Cook, Xiao Qian, and Fu Lihua, gathered for a memorable group photo that highlighted the event's cross-cultural appeal.
These interactions emphasized the gala's role as a nexus for networking and celebration within Western Australia's elite circles.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Community Engagement
This event not only marked the conclusion of the Terracotta Warriors exhibition but also served as a vibrant celebration of Chinese New Year, a festival rich in symbolism and tradition. The combination of ancient artifacts and contemporary festivity created a unique experience that resonated with attendees, blending historical appreciation with modern social engagement.
The success of the exhibition, evidenced by its massive visitor numbers, demonstrates Perth's growing appetite for international cultural exchanges. The gala further solidified this trend, offering a platform for dialogue and appreciation between diverse communities.
As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed the opportunity to reflect on the exhibition's impact while looking forward to the promises of the new lunar year. The evening stood as a testament to the power of cultural events in bringing people together, fostering understanding, and creating lasting memories in the heart of Perth.
