Lunar New Year is a time of joy, traditions, and celebrations, and New York City offers a variety of exciting events to welcome the Year of the Snake. From parades and cultural showcases to delicious food and nightlife, here are the best ways to celebrate Lunar New Year in NYC.
1. Experience the Vibrant Lunar New Year Parade

One of the biggest highlights of Lunar New Year in NYC is the Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown. On Sunday, February 16, 2025, the parade will mark its 27th anniversary, kicking off at 1 PM. The parade route takes you from Mott Street to Chatham Square, down East Broadway toward the Manhattan Bridge, and ending near Grand Street and Sara D. Roosevelt Park. Get ready for stunning floats, lion dancers, and confetti explosions!
2. Shop and Get Free Red Envelopes in Chinatown

Explore Chinatown’s local businesses while participating in the From Chinatown, With Love initiative. Spend $35 or more at participating shops starting January 11 and receive a pack of five red envelopes designed by talented artists. On January 16, visit the Abrons Arts Center to witness an all-women and queer lion dance team perform.
3. Try Your Luck at a Claw Machine Arcade

Step into a next-gen claw machine arcade in Chinatown, where you can win plushies and receive red envelope surprises at Anime Claw when you spend $40 or more. The arcade’s flashing neon lights and Japanese-inspired setup make it an exciting stop for Lunar New Year fun.
4. Indulge in Special Lunar New Year Dining Deals

NYC’s top restaurants are offering Lunar New Year food specials that symbolize prosperity and fortune. Try the exclusive LNY menus at Cha Cha Tang, Din Tai Fung, and other spots. Whether it’s dumplings, noodles, or sweet treats, there’s a delicious way to celebrate.
5. Enjoy a Vietnamese Lunar New Year Feast at NO BAR

From January 29 to February 28, NO BAR at The Standard East Village is offering special Vietnamese Lunar New Year dishes crafted by Bé Bêp’s Phoebe Tran. On February 8, you can also take part in an afternoon of group tea leaf readings with boozy tea cocktails and tattoos by Asian American femme artists.
6. Party All Night with the Chop Suey Club

The Chop Suey Club’s Lunar New Year Party is happening at 49 Elizabeth Street on January 31 from 9 PM to 2 AM. Enjoy an open bar featuring Ming River baijiu cocktails, performances, small bites from The Monkey King, and even red envelopes with up to $100 inside! Plus, if you’re feeling daring, you can hold a live snake at the event.
7. Learn Mahjong and Enjoy a Unique Night Out

Mahjong is having a major moment, and you can join the fun at the Ace Hotel in Brooklyn. Hosted by A+A+A and NEW INC, this mahjong tournament includes amazing prizes like a New Museum membership. Expect a night of synth-orchestra performances, DJ sets, and delicious food.
8. Immerse Yourself in Tea Culture at CHA CHA Festival

For tea lovers, the CHA CHA Festival on February 1 at Water Street Projects is a must-visit. This immersive festival explores tea’s significance through aroma, texture, color, and flavor. The event takes place at a 40,000-square-foot community space in downtown NYC, with innovative tea rituals presented by top design teams.
9. Watch an All-Asian Drag Show at Red Pavilion

Celebrate Lunar New Year in style with a spectacular drag show featuring Red Lantern District, the all-Asian drag trio. The show will be held at Red Pavilion in Bushwick on January 31 at 10 PM. Expect high-energy performances, audience games, special guest appearances, and DJ Manila Ice spinning tracks all night.
10. Get Lunar New Year Deals at Flushing’s Tangram Mall

Tangram, Flushing’s premier shopping mall, is celebrating the Year of the Snake with special promotions and cultural activities. On February 1, enjoy its dazzling Lunar New Year Parade, live performances, and a Lunar New Year market. Throughout the month, expect exclusive shopping deals and interactive workshops.
11. Discover a Reconstructed Chinese Palace at the China Institute

Step inside a slice of China’s history at the China Institute in Lower Manhattan. On February 2, experience the reconstruction of Prince Kung’s Palace Museum, along with lion dances, interactive workshops, and mesmerizing performances from 2 PM to 5 PM.
12. Dance on a Rooftop with Lion Dancers

For an unforgettable night with breathtaking city views, head to UNLISTED Rooftop at 3 Freeman Alley. The event on January 31 from 9 PM to 1 AM includes live DJ sets, handcrafted cocktails, vibrant Polaroid photo moments, and performances by local lion dancers. Show up early for a free on-site tattoo!
13. Shop and Enjoy Ribbon Dancing at Pearl River Mart

Pearl River Mart is NYC’s beloved Asian emporium, and they’re pulling out all the stops for Lunar New Year on February 9. Enjoy a full lineup of events starting at 11:30 AM, including ribbon dancing performances and cultural showcases.
Whether you’re watching a parade, dining on festive meals, or enjoying nightlife, NYC has something for everyone this Lunar New Year. Mark your calendars and get ready for a memorable celebration filled with culture, tradition, and fun!
Which event are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!