As Australians prepare to welcome the Lunar New Year in 2026, a series of vibrant celebrations are lined up across various states. This year’s festivities will honor the Year of the Horse, offering cultural activities, food, and entertainment for all ages.
Victoria’s Lunar New Year Celebrations
- Year of the Horse Celebration
Date: February 14, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Dai Gum San, Melbourne
Details: Organized in partnership with SBS. Respect is paid to the Traditional Custodians, the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung peoples. - Lunar New Year Traditional Lion Dance
Date: February 16, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Location: Spencer Outlet Centre, Docklands 3008.
Details: Organized in partnership with SBS, respecting the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples. - Lunar New Year at Queen Victoria Market
Date: February 17, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne 3000.
Details: Acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples. - ABAW Box Hill Chinese New Year
Date: February 21, 2026, 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (next day)
Location: Bank Street, Box Hill.
Details: Event organized with SBS, respecting the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people. - Melbourne Chinese Lunar New Year Festival
Date: February 22, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Chinatown, Melbourne 3000.
Details: Respect paid to the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples.
New South Wales Celebrations
- Bankstown Lunar New Year
Date: February 7, 2026, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Griffith Park, Bankstown 2200.
Details: Organized with SBS, honoring the Darug people. - Sydney Lunar Festival
Date: February 14 – March 1, 2026
Location: Sydney, NSW.
Details: Acknowledgment of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. - 2026 Lunar New Year Festival – Year of the Horse
Date: February 21, 2026, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Forest Road & Hurstville Plaza.
Details: Event organized with SBS, respect to the Bidjigal people.
Other States’ Celebrations
- Cairns Street Food Festival
Date: February 13, 2026, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: Cairns City, QLD.
Details: Respect for the local Indigenous communities. - CCAT Lunar New Year Festival
Date: February 22, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Parliament House Lawns, Hobart, TAS. - Chinatown Adelaide Lunar New Year Street Party
Date: February 21, 2026
Location: Gouger Street, Adelaide, SA.
Details: Organized in partnership with SBS.
Join the Festivities
The 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations across Australia showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the nation. Each event offers a unique opportunity to explore traditions and enjoy festivities that celebrate community and heritage. Don’t miss out on the vibrant atmosphere as we welcome the Year of the Horse.
