The Lunar New Year, some also call it the Chinese New Year, is a celebration in many Asian communities that officially begins on Tuesday, February 17th, 2026. It is the year of the horse and now is the time to celebrate! A symbol of good luck, rebirth and regality plus wealth, wisdom, and pursuing love and happiness. Here is where to join the fun and celebrate the lunar new year:
Washington, DC
1. Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art: Lunar New Year Celebration
When: Saturday, February 21, 2025, 10am-1pm: family fun, 1pm-6pm tours and talks
Where: National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
This event has something for everyone! Be sure to register and check out the full details on the site! To mark the start of the year of the snake, enjoy a dragon dance, cooking demonstration, galleries, and activities. Register in advance!
2. DC Chinese Lunar New Year Parade
When: Sunday, February 22, 2026, 2pm
Where: Chinatown/Gallery Place, Washington, DC
Parade, performances, and firecrackers.
Maryland
3. Westfield Mall Lunar New Year Celebration
When: Saturday, February 15, 2026, 11:00am-3:00pm and Saturday, February 15, 2026, 11:00am-3:00pm
Where: 7101 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda, MD
The Chineses Culture and Community Service Center in collaboration with Westfield Montgomery Mall hosts exhibits and performances, including a traditional dragon dance. RSVP HERE
4. Rockville Lunar New Year Celebration
When: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1:30-3:00pm
Where: Richard Montgomery High School, 250 Richard Montgomery Drive, Rockville, MD
Rockville’s Asian Pacific American Task Force hosts performances, interactive displays, craft activities and snack boxes.
5. Rockville Lantern Festival
When: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1:00pm-4:00pm
Where: F Scott Fitzgerald Theater, 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, MD
Family-friendly event with cultural performances, drag dances, activities, and story telling. Free admission.
Virginia
6. Fair Oaks Mall Lunar New Year Celebration
When: Saturday, February 21, 2026 and Sunday, February 22, 2026 1pm-5pm
Where: 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA
Hosted by the Hai Hua Community Center (HHCC), expect to enjoy a day of activities, food, games, and cultural performances.
7. Lunar New Year at Potomac Mills
When: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1pm-3pm
Where: Grand Court, near TJMaxx
See Lion Dance performers, enjoy live music, and other Asian performances. Plus enjoy shopping at a discount with over 60 retailers offering a special discount.
Enjoy the Lunar New Year events for kids and families! For more activities, checkout 26 Family-Friendly Cultural Events in Washington, DC.
