Thursday, January 29, 2026

Downtown San Francisco comes alive for Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year with weeks of art, food, culture, and community traditions. The iconic Chinese New Year Festival and Parade in SF’s Chinatown returns with floats and performances that draw visitors from all around the world.  

Accompanying these celebrations are hands‑on crafts, calligraphy workshops, live performances, and bustling street fairs, offering countless ways to welcome the Year of the Horse. From family‑friendly activities to vibrant neighborhood events, here’s your guide to can’t‑miss Lunar New Year celebrations happening throughout downtown San Francisco. 

Signature Festivals, Fairs, & Downtown Celebrations

Chinatown Lunar New Year Block Party 

During Big Game Week, the Chinatown Lunar New Year Block Party will transform Grant Avenue into a historic celebration in the heart of San Francisco Chinatown. Celebrate Lunar New Year and the Big Game with local small businesses, cultural performances, music, and immersive experiences. 

🗓February 4 | 5 PM – 9 PM 
📍 Grant Avenue 

Chinese New Year Day Opening Ceremony & Choy Sun Doe Day 

Celebrate Chinese New Year Day with a joyful tradition in Chinatown. Choy Sun (the God of Fortune) will stroll through the neighborhood, handing out thousands of bright red lai see envelopes to children. Each one filled with a chocolate gold coin, and some with surprise prizes!  

🗓 February 17 | 11 AM – 2 PM 
📍 Portsmouth Square | 745 Kearny 

Chinese New Year Parade  

One of the biggest Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia, San Francisco’s Chinese New Year Parade is must-see for all. This legendary nighttime parade features illuminated floats, firecrackers, lion dancers, and over-the-top performances as it winds through downtown streets. The parade is free to watch, with ticketed seating available in the bleachers. 

🗓 March 7 | 5:15 PM  
📍 2nd and Market Streets | Goes around Union Square, Ends at Kearny Street & Columbus Ave 

Flower Market Fair  

Kick off the New Year the traditional way at the Chinese New Year Flower Market Fair. Shop for fresh flowers, citrus fruit, candy, and festive home décor while enjoying live performances from magicians, acrobats, folk dancers, and opera singers. With more than 120 booths, this annual fair is a feast for the senses. 

🗓 February 14 & 15 | 9 AM – 6 PM 
📍 Grant Ave Between Clay & Broadway 

Community Street Fair  

Chinatown’s Community Street Fair brings two full days of shopping, food, and family-friendly fun. Browse over 120 booths, catch live performances including Chinese folk dance, opera, and drumming, and snap photos with giant puppets, dragons, and parade favorites. 

🗓 March 7, 10 AM – 4:30 PM & March 8, 9 AM – 5 PM  
📍 Grant Ave Between California & Broadway 

Zodiac On Parade  

Zodiac on Parade returns with a citywide public art showcase celebrating the Year of the Horse. Presented by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of San Francisco, this beloved installation features hand-painted 2 Horse statues displayed across San Francisco for several weeks.  

🗓 January 31-March 15 
📍 San Francisco 

Crafts, Calligraphy, & Social Events 

Crafty Chinese New Year at Mr Mahjong’s 

Get creative and ring in the Year of the Horse with SF Craft Club at Mr. Mahjong’s. Bring your own project or try Lunar New Year–inspired crafts like lantern making and a festive horse-themed activity. Lynda of Happy Patches will also be hosting a DIY customization table with Mahjong and Lunar New Year designs available for purchase, perfect for personalizing a tote or gifting something special. 

🗓February 11 | 6 PM – 8 PM 
📍 260 Kearny St 

Happy Lunar New Year Singles Speed Dating 

Get ready to mingle and celebrate the Lunar New Year with other singles! Looking to meet new singles? You are invited to Mr. Mahjong’s for the Happy Lunar New Year Singles Speed Dating event! 

🗓 February 18 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM 
📍 260 Kearny St 

Lunar New Year Calligraphy at the Ferry Building 

Experience the art of Chinese calligraphy with a live demonstration at the Ferry Building. Watch JoJo Liu, Chinese calligrapher, and take home a personalized red paper scroll filled with Lunar New Year well wishes, a meaningful keepsake for the Year of the Horse. 

🗓 February 22 | 10 AM – 3 PM 
📍1 Ferry Building | Central Passthrough Across from Delica 

Lunar New Year Tea Time at the Ferry Building 

Celebrate in a cozy, delicious way with Lunar New Year Tea Time from Little Moon Bakehouse. This special seated tea service highlights the bakery’s plant-based treats and Asian-inspired flavors. Seating is limited, so keep an eye out for ticket availability. 

🗓 February 22 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM 
📍1 Ferry Building | Second Floor Grand Hall 

Stay Tuned for More Lunar New Year Events

More Lunar New Year celebrations, pop‑ups, and cultural experiences are still being announced across Downtown San Francisco. Stay in the loop as venues roll out festive specials, performances, and immersive experiences throughout the season. 

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