The best things to do for Lunar New Year (a.k.a. Chinese New Year)
Our post-NYE hangovers are finally fading from memory, and not a moment too soon. It's time to cash in on round two: Lunar New Year (or Chinese New Year). If you truly want to celebrate this awesome holiday, head to Manhattan's Chinatown for the Chinese New Year Parade. With firecrackers, dance performances, elaborate costumes and martial arts demonstrations, it's hands down one of the best events in February. If less raucous revelry is more to your taste, sit back and fill your belly at one of the best Chinese restaurants in NYC.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Lunar New Year in NYC
Things to do for Lunar New Year
Chinese New Year Parade
During one of the best NYC events in January, Chinatown, NYC is stormed by dragons and dancers, while some of the best Chinese restaurants serve delicious food in celebration of the Lunar New Year. But before you get lost in the bang of firecrackers, check out some fun things to do in the neighborhood, including the best karaoke in Chinatown.
"Faith and Empire: Art and Politics in Tibetan Buddhism"
The Rubin's new exhibition explores how art, religion and the occult influenced the coronation and reigns of Tibetan rulers from the 8th through 19th century. Boasting over 60 artifacts, the tour looks back on a little-known saga in history, during which rulers invoked tantra, magic rituals and reincarnation to stake a claim to power.
Temple Bazaar
Throughout China, temples host festivals where locals can observe the national holiday. The Flushing Town Hall recreates this experience with its annual Temple Bazaar, where you can enjoy music, dance and martial arts performances, plus nosh on delicious traditional foods and learn crafts like lantern making.
Looking for some grub?
Check out the best restaurants for dim sum in NYC
Gather a crew to feast on a midday Chinese meal. Here are the best spots for dim sum that NYC has to offer.
The best Chinese restaurants in NYC
New York has a long lineage of Chinese restaurants showcasing the culinary traditions of nearly every province in China, as well as the fusion fare created by immigrants in the United States. Whether you're looking to sample fiery Szechuan fare or experience a classic weekend dim sum brunch, the city has got you covered. From white-clothed Midtown restaurants to hole-in-the-wall Chinatown restaurants, find the best Chinese restaurant NYC has to offer. RECOMMENDED: See all of the best restaurants in NYC
The very best dumplings in NYC
No need to stick to one borough—the best dumplings in NYC can be eaten throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. Head downtown to get your soup dumpling fix at one of the best Chinatown restaurants in the city. Exploring new neighborhoods? Take the train to Sunset Park for some of the best dim sum outside Hong Kong. And if you're really on a budget, there are plenty of options for cheap dumplings along the way. RECOMMENDED: Find more of the best restaurants in NYC
The best Chinese bakeries in NYC
New Yorks Chinatown is packed with amazing dim sum restaurants, fun-loving karaoke bars and top-notch Chinese bakeries offering a dizzying array of pastries. Most are known for one exceptional item, however, whether thats a buttery egg tart, a fluffy sponge cake or a lotus-filled hopia. It doesnt get much sweeter than this. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to best restaurants in NYC
