From China’s thunderous Spring Festival to Vietnam’s Tết feast with lucky envelopes, the Lunar New Year roars across Asia in a symphony of names. In Korea, Seollal whispers traditions in silken hanbok, while Tibet chants Losar through fluttering prayer flags and yak butter lamps. Whatever the language, it’s a family feast for the soul, a kaleidoscope of cultures united under a new moon’s hopeful gaze.
As the calendar turns and the Year of the Dragon approaches, Houston prepares to bring in the auspicious new year with dragon dances, lion dances and delicious food.
These celebrations take place in Houston’s Asiatown. Expect to see families celebrating their annual traditions. Bring cash to “feed” the lion during the lion dance performance or to spend in the Asian pop-up market at each new year festival. Performers from Dance of Asian America, Shaolin Kung Fu Academy and Huaxing Arts Group Houston make the rounds.
Chinese New Year on February 10th, 2024. Lion dances, traditional performances, craft activities, Chinese calligraphy and food trucks. A Lodgeur favorite, this celebration is family focused with kids’ performances and carnival games. Parking is relatively easy.
Lunar New Year on February 17th-18th, 2024. Lion dances, martial arts, dance performances, and delectable treats. Note that parking is a challenge.
These celebrations attract a wider audience and are focused on families learning about Lunar New Year.
Radiant Nature through February 25, 2024. This enchanting light display weaves nature and technology, transforming the gardens into a kaleidoscope of glowing paths, twinkling trees, and mesmerizing projections.
Lunar New Year Bash on January 21, 2024. Family-friendly activities, crafts, storytelling, and dragon dance performances.
Pearland Lunar New Year Festival is on February 24, 2024. Enjoy lion dances, calligraphy, paper lanterns, cultural exhibits, hands-on fun and more at the Pearland Recreation Center.
Bring the whole family to the Winter Festival on February 24, 2024. Listen to fiery drums, check out awe-inspiring lion dances and participate in hands-on arts making – all free! When you need a break, explore the pop-up marketplace to discover Asian cuisines available for purchase.
So, grab your red envelopes and prepare to be dazzled. Lunar New Year Houston is not to be missed. If you’re still hungry after you leave, check out some of Lodgeur’s favorite Asian restaurants in Houston. And read our next blog post for more Houston events in February.