Lunar New Year is a significant celebration among many Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. It represents the arrival of new beginnings and is celebrated according to the lunar calendar. In 2026, festivities will kick off the Year of the Fire Horse, following the Year of the Snake.
Key Dates and Celebrations
Beginning on February 17, 2026, over a billion people worldwide will partake in Lunar New Year festivities. Celebrations include fireworks, lion dances, and the giving of lucky red envelopes, known as “hóngbāo” in Chinese and “bao lì xì” in Vietnamese. Events typically span 15 days.
Top Spots to Celebrate Lunar New Year 2026 in San Diego
- San Diego Public Library
- Various branches will host activities like lion dances, cultural talks, themed crafts, and children’s story times.
- Convoy Rising: Lunar New Year Kickoff Celebration
- Date: February 8, 2026
- Location: Convoy & Vickers Street
- Description: A night-market event featuring lion dances, firecracker rituals, and cultural showcases, organized by The Doan Foundation and others.
- San Diego Lunar New Year Festival
- Date: February 13-15, 2026
- Location: Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, 4455 Wightman St., City Heights
- Description: Highlights include lion dances, food vendors, cultural displays, and contests for eating and drinking specialties.
- San Diego Tết Festival
- Date: February 20-22, 2026
- Location: NTC Park – Liberty Station, 2640 Cushing Road
- Description: Celebrates Vietnamese culture with food, performances, carnival rides, and a special appearance from Đào Distillery.
- Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair
- Date: February 21-22, 2026
- Location: Balboa Park International Cottages, 2191 Pan American Road
- Description: Features lion dances, traditional Chinese cuisine, cultural performances, and calligraphy demonstrations.
- San Diego Chinese New Year Fair
- Date: February 28 – March 1, 2026
- Location: 428 3rd Ave., downtown San Diego
- Description: Since 1983, this fair includes lion and dragon dances, taiko performances, and traditional food vendors.
These events offer a vibrant way to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse in 2026, celebrating culture and community throughout San Diego.
