Every year, approximately two billion people worldwide welcome the Lunar New Year between late January and mid-February. The 2026 celebration will begin on Tuesday, February 17. Cities like Vancouver offer numerous ways for residents and visitors to participate in the festivities.
Lunar New Year Explained
Many refer to the Lunar New Year as the Chinese New Year, but this term is somewhat misleading. Lunar New Year encompasses celebrations from various Asian cultures, while Chinese New Year specifically pertains to traditions within the Chinese community. All Chinese New Year festivities are part of the broader Lunar New Year celebration.
A Lunisolar Calendar
This historic calendar is influenced by both the moon and sun. Months follow the lunar cycle, beginning with each new moon. The New Year commences on the new moon closest to the midnight between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. This lunar aspect has historically guided farming practices in China, determining when to sow and harvest crops, marking the arrival of spring.
Vancouver’s Lunar New Year Celebrations
Vancouver hosts vibrant Lunar New Year events, particularly its annual parade, which attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators. This year, the celebrations are especially momentous, marking the Year of the Fire Horse—an energetic zodiac sign that appears only once every 60 years. The excitement in the city builds until the Lantern Festival, concluding on March 3.
Festive Dining Options
Those looking to enhance their Lunar New Year celebrations can explore culinary suggestions from local resources. BCLIQUOR provides a variety of exceptional wines and spirits to complement festive meals. Here are some suggested pairings:
- Peking/Beijing-Style Duck Breast: La Marca Prosecco or Wakefield Estate Label Shiraz.
- Duck Noodle Soup: See Ya Later Ranch Pinot Noir or Pewsey Vale Estate Riesling.
- Duck Lettuce Wraps: Black Sage Merlot or Fowles Are You Game Pinot Noir.
BCLIQUOR operates 198 locations across the province, each offering expert advice and an extensive selection of products. Customers are encouraged to visit their local store to discover their Lunar New Year offerings while enjoying responsibly.
