Lunar New Year events in SoCal, LA not to miss in 2026
See the ‘crying horse’ toy that has become a viral hit
A sad horse plush from China went viral after a manufacturing error turned what was supposed to be a smiling toy into a “crying horse.”
The Lunar New Year begins on Tuesday, Feb. 17, ushering us into the Year of the Horse as Southern California cities see numerous festivities in the coming days, from family-friendly parades to a live music performance.
Here’s just a few ways you can celebrate in February.
Annual Golden Dragon Parade in Los Angeles
The longstanding, vibrant Golden Dragon Parade returns to Chinatown in Los Angeles. Expect dance troupes, music and various cultural groups take over the streets for the afternoon.
- When: ۱ p.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 21
- Where: Parade begins at the intersection of North Hill Street and Ord Street in Los Angeles
- More information: Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles’ website
Alhambra Lunar New Year Festival
San Gabriel Valley residents can celebrate the Lunar New Year in Alhambra, where attendees will see a dragon dance and cultural performances take over Main Street. Also an option: indulge in food from local vendors.
- When: Feb. 28
- Where: Main Street, Alhambra
- More information: Alhambra Lunar New Year’s website
Disney California Adventure’s Lunar New Year
Disney California Adventure Park wraps up its Lunar New Year festivities on Feb. 22. That includes a Lunar New Year procession featuring characters from “Mulan,” specialty eats, a chance to visit the Lunar New Year Wishing Wall and other festivities.
- When: Until Feb. 22
- Where: Disneyland Resort
- More information: Disneyland Resort’s website
Firecracker Run in Los Angeles
Take in Chinatown with the popular Firecracker Run 5k and 10k, which supports elementary schools and nonprofit organizations serving the region, according to organizers. Note that on Feb. 28, there will be a bike ride and a 2k dog walk as part of the Firecracker Run festivities.
- When: Various times Feb. 28 and March 1
- Where: Los Angeles
- More information: Firecracker Run’s website
The Huntington Lunar New Year 2026
Get tickets for the Lunar New Year Festival at the Huntington, where attendees will get to see lion dancers, martial arts demonstrations, dance performances, calligraphy demonstrations and more at the museum known for its impressive gardens and library.
- When: ۱۰ a.m. to 5 p.m. on Feb. 21-22
- Where: ۱۱۵۱ Oxford Road, San Marino
- More information: The Huntington’s website
Northridge’s Family Village Celebration Lunar New Year
Northridge Park is hosting the Lunar New Year Family Village Celebration, an event intended for all ages to experience live performances, participate in art activities and shop goods from vendors.
- When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 28
- Where: 10058 Reseda Blvd., Northridge
- More information: City of Los Angeles’ website
Pacific Symphony’s Lunar New Year in Costa Mesa
Get tickets for the Pacific Symphony’s Lunar New Year performance, which will blend music and dance on stage at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa.
- When: 8 p.m. on Feb. 21
- Where: ۶۰۰ Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
- More information: Pacific Symphony’s website
Port of Los Angeles Lunar New Year Festival
Artist marketplace Crafted in San Pedro is hosting the 12th annual Port of Los Angeles Lunar New Year Festival. The free, family-friend event will feature live performances, a petting zoo, food trucks and more.
- When: ۳ pm. to 7 p.m. on Feb. 21
- Where: 112 E. 22nd St., San Pedro
- More information: Port of Los Angeles’ website
San Bernardino County Lunar New Year 2026
San Bernardino’s third annual Lunar New Year Celebration will takeover the downtown Court Street Square with cultural and musical performances, including a dragon dance, to arts and crafts for families and food vendors and sellers.
- When: Noon to 6 p.m. Feb. 21
- Where: ۳۴۹ E. North E. St., San Bernardino
- More information: City of San Bernardino’s website
Westminster Tet Parade 2026
Experience the free Tet Parade, which celebrates both the Lunar New Year and the Vietnamese-American community in Orange County, according to the city. See floats, marching bands, lion dances, martial arts and other performances in this morning celebration.
- When: Opening ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 21
- Where: Intersection of Bolsa Avenue and Magnolia Street in Westminster
- More information: City of Westminster’s website
When is the Chinese New Year 2026?
The Chinese New Year starts Tuesday, Feb. 17. You may hear the names Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year be used interchangeably. However, numerous Asian cultures outside of China celebrate the start of a year that, based on our calendars, comes late January or early February.
What is the Lunar New Year animal for 2026?
Say goodbye to the Year of the Snake. The Lunar New Year ushers in the Year of the Horse, specifically the Fire Horse. It symbolizes “energy, freedom, and forward momentum,” according to Asia Society Texas. The horse is also synonymous with strength, grace and determination, and this zodiac sign serves as a powerful symbol of perseverance, freedom and momentum for the upcoming lunar cycle.
The horse is traditionally regarded as an emblem of confidence and forward motion, suggesting a period defined by significant opportunity and success.
USA TODAY reporter Saman Shafiq contributed to this report.
Paris Barraza is a reporter covering Los Angeles and Southern California for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at pbarraza@usatodayco.com.
