[category]
[title]
Lunar New Year has passed, but the celebrations are far from over. The momentous holiday marks one of the most important traditions in Chinese culture, honoring ancestors and deities while welcoming the arrival of spring. The celebration follows the lunar calendar, beginning with the new moon and continuing through early March. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2026 is the Year of the Horse.
Across Chicago, parades, screenings and parties continue for weeks after the holiday itself. Festivities stretch from Uptown to Chinatown. Head to Argyle Street or Chinatown for colorful parades, traditional performances and plenty of festive dining. Whether you’re catching a lion dance or sitting down for dumplings, there are plenty of ways to ring in the new year.
RECOMMENDED: Our guide to Lunar New Year in Chicago
The best Lunar New Year events in Chicago
Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration
Argyle St and Sheridan Rd
Feb 21 at 10:30am
Uptown’s annual celebration brings Argyle Street to life with dragons, dancers and drummers. The parade kicks off at 1pm at Argyle Street and Sheridan Road, with more than 20 local groups participating. Expect performances and family-friendly activities from 10:30am to 4pm.
Lunar New Year at Navy Pier
Navy Pier Aon Grand Ballroom, 840 E Grand Ave
Feb 21 at 1pm
Navy Pier transforms its Aon Grand Ballroom into a festive, family-friendly celebration. Expect traditional and contemporary performances, food vendors and activities welcoming the Year of the Horse.
Chinese New Year Dumpling-Making Dinner
Hing Kee, 2140 S Archer Ave,
Feb 21 and 22 at 3pm
Hosted by the Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute, this hands-on event includes storytelling, lion dances and a dumpling-making feast. Tickets are $55, with seatings at Hing Kee throughout this weekend.
Escape from the 21st Century screening
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington St
Feb 21 at 11am
Presented by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and the Consulate General of China, this free screening celebrates Lunar New Year with a high-energy Chinese sci-fi adventure. The film follows three teens who can time-travel with a sneeze—and must change the future.
Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
Wentworth Ave and Cermak Rd
Mar 1 at 1pm
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Chinatown’s annual parade, where marching bands, floats and lion dancers fill Wentworth Avenue. The procession begins at 24th Street at 1pm and heads north to Cermak Road.
LGBTQ Lunar New Year Dinner
Furama, 4936 N Broadway
Mar 7 at 6:30pm
Asians and Friends Chicago brings together members of the LGBTQ community to celebrate the Lunar New Year with dinner and a show at Furama. The evening will include a multi-course meal, raffle and a special performance.