After leading several years of successful walking tours introducing Edmonton's two Chinatowns to participants in the summer months, volunteers Freya Fu and Sharon Yeo wanted to continue that momentum and interest in Chinatown into winter. Chinatown Dining Week was born.

The inaugural event took place in 2018, and started with just 5 restaurants. In 2024, Chinatown Dining Week is now in its seventh year, with 24 participating businesses.

The annual event is organized by a volunteer team, with support from a City of Edmonton grant.