Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated holidays across the globe. Marking the beginning of the lunar calendar, it’s a time of family reunions, cultural traditions, and dazzling festivities. If you’re looking to experience the magic of Lunar New Year, here are some of the best places around the world to celebrate.
Celebrated by millions, Lunar New Year is a time to honor traditions, welcome good fortune, and embrace the joy of new beginnings. While the customs vary across regions, the festival is universally marked by spectacular displays of culture—think dazzling lanterns, lively parades, and delicious feasts. It’s a season of togetherness, where families and communities come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and pay homage to ancestors.
The celebration typically lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival, with each day offering unique traditions and rituals. From the roar of dragon and lion dances to the quiet reverence of temple visits, the holiday is a blend of festive energy and cultural significance. Whether it’s decorating homes with red for luck, lighting fireworks to ward off evil spirits, or indulging in symbolic dishes, every aspect of Lunar New Year is infused with meaning and charm.
If you’re planning to experience Lunar New Year in its full glory, certain destinations stand out for their grand celebrations, unique traditions, and vibrant energy. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the lively parades of San Francisco, these places promise unforgettable memories and an immersive glimpse into this extraordinary festival.
1. Beijing, China
As the heart of Chinese culture, Beijing offers one of the most authentic Lunar New Year experiences. The city transforms into a festive wonderland, blending ancient traditions with modern celebrations. The air is filled with the sounds of firecrackers and the vibrant energy of lion and dragon dances, while streets and parks are adorned with red lanterns and decorative banners symbolizing good fortune.
Beijing’s temple fairs are a cornerstone of the city’s Lunar New Year festivities. These lively events bring together performances, handicrafts, and local cuisine, providing a deep dive into Chinese cultural traditions. Whether you’re watching folk dances, savoring steamed buns, or admiring intricate paper cuttings, temple fairs are a sensory feast. Beyond the fairs, Beijing’s iconic landmarks also embrace the festive spirit, offering unique experiences steeped in history and charm.
Must-visit spots include:
- Ditan Park Temple Fair for cultural performances, lion dances, and local snacks.
- The Forbidden City to witness its festive decorations and historical ambiance.
- Temple of Heaven for ceremonial traditions, prayer activities, and stunning lantern displays.
2. Hong Kong
Hong Kong takes Lunar New Year celebrations to spectacular heights, combining vibrant traditions with a modern, cosmopolitan twist. The city bursts to life during the festival, with streets adorned in dazzling red and gold decorations, flower markets buzzing with activity, and a festive spirit that can be felt in every corner. From breathtaking fireworks displays to age-old customs, Hong Kong offers a truly unforgettable Lunar New Year experience.
One of the highlights of celebrating in Hong Kong is the annual Victoria Harbour Fireworks Display, a stunning show that lights up the iconic skyline with a kaleidoscope of colors. The city’s famous flower markets, particularly in Victoria Park, are another must-see, offering everything from lucky plants and flowers to festive trinkets. Visitors can also enjoy the Chinese New Year Parade, featuring floats, performers, and lion dancers weaving through the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui.
Must-visit spots include:
- Victoria Harbour Fireworks for breathtaking views of Hong Kong’s skyline illuminated by a dazzling light show.
- Flower Markets like Victoria Park for festive blooms, tangerine trees, and New Year décor.
- Chinese New Year Parade in Tsim Sha Tsui for a lively mix of floats, performers, and cultural entertainment.
3. Singapore
Singapore embraces Lunar New Year with vibrant celebrations that blend traditional Chinese customs with the city’s multicultural charm. The streets of Chinatown become the heart of the festivities, adorned with glowing red lanterns, intricate decorations, and bustling markets selling everything from festive treats to auspicious ornaments. The atmosphere is electric, offering a perfect mix of cultural heritage and modern-day excitement.
One of the highlights is the Chinatown Street Light-Up, where the streets are transformed into a dazzling display of lights and zodiac-themed decorations. The celebrations extend to the River Hongbao Festival at Marina Bay, featuring massive lantern installations, cultural performances, and spectacular fireworks. Food enthusiasts can also enjoy Singapore’s unique twist on Lunar New Year dishes, such as the iconic Yusheng (prosperity toss), a colorful salad tossed to symbolize good fortune.
Must-visit spots include:
- Chinatown Street Light-Up for stunning lantern displays and cultural street performances.
- River Hongbao Festival at Marina Bay for large-scale lantern installations, fireworks, and live shows.
- Local Restaurants to savor Yusheng and other festive dishes that bring a Singaporean twist to the celebration.
4. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei offers a lively and immersive Lunar New Year experience, blending traditional Taiwanese customs with modern festivities. The city comes alive with colorful markets, temple rituals, and dazzling lantern displays, creating an atmosphere that’s both celebratory and culturally rich. From bustling night markets to serene temple visits, Taipei provides a well-rounded experience for anyone looking to embrace the spirit of the Lunar New Year.
One of the most iconic parts of the celebration is the Lunar New Year Markets, where visitors can shop for festive decorations, traditional snacks, and symbolic gifts. Raohe and Ningxia night markets are especially popular, offering everything from pineapple cakes to dumplings. The festivities continue with the Taipei Lantern Festival, which takes place after the New Year and features intricate lantern displays, cultural performances, and vibrant zodiac-themed installations. For a more spiritual experience, visit Longshan Temple, where locals gather to pray for blessings, health, and prosperity.
Must-visit spots include:
- Raohe and Ningxia Night Markets for festive snacks, decorations, and a lively atmosphere.
- Taipei Lantern Festival for elaborate lantern displays and cultural performances.
- Longshan Temple to witness traditional rituals and prayers for good fortune.
5. Shanghai, China
Shanghai combines the traditions of Lunar New Year with the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis. The city celebrates the festival with a mix of ancient customs, stunning decorations, and grand festivities, making it a dynamic destination to ring in the Lunar New Year. From lively temple fairs to dazzling light displays, Shanghai offers something for everyone looking to embrace the spirit of the holiday.
One of the highlights is the Yuyuan Garden Lantern Festival, where the historic garden is transformed into a magical space filled with intricate lanterns, including zodiac-themed designs and traditional motifs. Visitors can also stroll along Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, where shops are decked out in festive red and gold decorations. For a touch of whimsy, head to Shanghai Disneyland, which hosts Lunar New Year parades, themed activities, and special performances, blending Disney magic with Chinese traditions.
Must-visit spots include:
- Yuyuan Garden Lantern Festival for breathtaking lantern displays and a festive atmosphere in a historic setting.
- Nanjing Road for shopping and exploring festive markets filled with traditional New Year goods.
- Shanghai Disneyland for unique Lunar New Year parades and activities with a magical twist.
6. Seoul, South Korea
In South Korea, Lunar New Year is celebrated as Seollal, a cherished holiday that focuses on family traditions and honoring ancestors. While many locals travel home for family reunions, visitors can still experience the rich cultural heritage through festive activities, traditional rituals, and delicious food. Seoul, as the country’s capital, offers a unique blend of modern celebrations and historical traditions.
One of the best ways to experience Seollal is by visiting Seoul’s folk villages, such as Namsangol Hanok Village or the Korean Folk Village, where you can watch traditional performances, play folk games like yutnori (a traditional board game), and learn about Korean customs. The city’s royal palaces, like Gyeongbokgung Palace, are another must-visit, with special cultural demonstrations and visitors dressed in beautiful hanbok (traditional Korean attire). And, of course, no Seollal celebration is complete without enjoying traditional dishes like tteokguk (rice cake soup), which symbolizes the start of a new year and personal growth.
Must-visit spots include:
- Namsangol Hanok Village for traditional games, performances, and cultural experiences.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace to see visitors in hanbok and participate in special Seollal events.
- Local Restaurants to enjoy symbolic dishes like tteokguk (rice cake soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).
7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur celebrates Lunar New Year with a lively blend of traditions, stunning decorations, and multicultural charm. The city’s vibrant Chinese community brings the festival to life with colorful lion dances, bustling markets, and elaborate temple rituals. From iconic temples to lively streets, Kuala Lumpur offers an unforgettable Lunar New Year experience.
One of the highlights is a visit to the Thean Hou Temple, a magnificent six-tiered Chinese temple that is beautifully adorned with red lanterns and festive decorations. The temple hosts traditional prayers, cultural performances, and vibrant lion dances, making it a central hub for celebrations. For a more urban vibe, explore Petaling Street in Chinatown, where you’ll find stalls selling New Year snacks, trinkets, and symbolic decorations. Don’t miss the city’s major shopping malls, such as Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC, which go all out with extravagant Lunar New Year displays, including giant lanterns, zodiac-themed installations, and festive sales.
Must-visit spots include:
- Thean Hou Temple for stunning decorations, traditional rituals, and cultural performances.
- Petaling Street in Chinatown for lively street markets and festive atmosphere.
- Shopping Malls like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC for elaborate Lunar New Year displays and promotions.
8. San Francisco, USA
San Francisco is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Chinese communities in the United States, making it a premier destination for Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia. The city’s festivities combine traditional customs with a distinctly American flair, creating a unique and lively atmosphere. From cultural parades to colorful markets, San Francisco’s celebration is a must-see for anyone looking to embrace the spirit of the Lunar New Year.
The centerpiece of the city’s celebration is the Chinese New Year Parade, a spectacular event featuring elaborate floats, martial arts performances, and the iconic Golden Dragon, which stretches over 200 feet long. The parade winds through the streets of Chinatown, drawing thousands of spectators every year. Before or after the parade, explore San Francisco’s Chinatown, one of the oldest and most vibrant in the country, where you’ll find lion dances, traditional music, and a wide array of delicious Lunar New Year treats. For something extra festive, visit the Flower Market Fair, where you can stock up on lucky plants, vibrant decorations, and symbolic gifts.
Must-visit spots include:
- Chinese New Year Parade for an unforgettable display of floats, dragon dances, and cultural performances.
- San Francisco Chinatown to experience lion dances, traditional food, and festive activities.
- Flower Market Fair to browse lucky plants, decorations, and New Year gifts.
9. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown district makes it one of the most exciting places to celebrate Lunar New Year in Thailand. The city comes alive with energy as streets are adorned with red lanterns, shops bustle with festive preparations, and the aroma of delicious street food fills the air. Bangkok’s celebrations seamlessly blend traditional Chinese customs with the city’s dynamic cultural atmosphere.
The epicenter of the festivities is Yaowarat Road, where you can enjoy dragon and lion dances, live music, and traditional Chinese opera performances. The street is lined with food stalls offering Lunar New Year delicacies such as dumplings, roasted duck, and sweet rice cakes. Bangkok’s Wat Mangkon Kamalawat temple is another must-visit, where locals gather to perform prayers and offer incense to welcome good fortune for the year ahead. For an added touch of magic, explore the glowing lantern displays scattered throughout the city during the festival.
Must-visit spots include:
- Yaowarat Road for dragon parades, cultural performances, and delicious street food.
- Wat Mangkon Kamalawat for traditional prayers, incense offerings, and blessings.
- Lantern Displays across the city for beautiful nighttime views and festive ambiance.
10. Sydney, Australia
Sydney hosts one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in the Southern Hemisphere, blending traditional Chinese customs with the city’s vibrant multicultural flair. The city comes alive with festive energy, featuring dazzling lantern displays, cultural performances, and unique events along its iconic landmarks. From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the picturesque waterfronts of Darling Harbour, Sydney offers an unforgettable Lunar New Year experience.
One of the highlights is the Lunar Lanterns Trail, a stunning outdoor exhibition of giant lanterns representing the animals of the Chinese zodiac. The trail winds through Circular Quay and the Sydney Opera House, creating a magical nighttime atmosphere. For thrill-seekers, the Dragon Boat Races at Darling Harbour are a must-see, showcasing exhilarating races on the water. Food enthusiasts can also explore pop-up Lunar New Year markets, offering everything from dumplings and bao buns to traditional desserts and drinks.
Must-visit spots include:
- Lunar Lanterns Trail at Circular Quay for larger-than-life zodiac lanterns and breathtaking views.
- Dragon Boat Races at Darling Harbour for exciting races and lively waterfront festivities.
- Lunar New Year Food Markets to indulge in Asian delicacies and festive treats.
11. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
In Vietnam, Lunar New Year is celebrated as Tết, the most important holiday of the year. Ho Chi Minh City, with its dynamic mix of tradition and modernity, is a fantastic place to experience the vibrant energy of Tết. From bustling flower markets to colorful decorations and fireworks, the city transforms into a festive paradise that welcomes locals and visitors alike.
One of the highlights is the Nguyen Hue Flower Street, where the main boulevard is transformed into a breathtaking floral display featuring intricate arrangements, zodiac-themed installations, and colorful lights. The street becomes a hub for families, friends, and photographers capturing the beauty of Tết. Fireworks displays across the city, particularly near popular landmarks, light up the night sky to ring in the New Year. For a taste of Vietnamese Lunar New Year traditions, visit local markets like Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for Tết specialties such as sticky rice cakes (bánh chưng), dried fruits, and decorative items.
Must-visit spots include:
- Nguyen Hue Flower Street for stunning floral installations and festive photo opportunities.
- Fireworks Displays near key landmarks for a dazzling start to the New Year.
- Ben Thanh Market to shop for traditional Tết foods, gifts, and decorations.
12. London, UK
London hosts one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in Europe, centered around the city’s vibrant Chinatown and iconic Trafalgar Square. The festivities combine traditional Chinese customs with London’s unique multicultural energy, making it a fantastic destination to celebrate the New Year. The city comes alive with parades, cultural performances, and festive decorations that draw locals and visitors alike.
The highlight of London’s celebration is the Chinese New Year Parade, which winds through the West End with colorful floats, lion dances, and performers in traditional costumes. Trafalgar Square becomes a hub of activity with live music, martial arts demonstrations, and acrobatics. Chinatown is the heart of the celebration, where streets are lined with red lanterns, and restaurants offer special menus featuring classic Lunar New Year dishes like dumplings and crispy duck. Visitors can also explore pop-up food stalls and shops selling symbolic decorations and gifts.
Must-visit spots include:
Chinatown to enjoy authentic New Year dishes and soak in the festive atmosphere.nt festivities around the world. Whether you’re seeking a traditional experience in Asia or a multicultural celebration in a global city, these destinations offer unforgettable ways to ring in the Lunar New Year with joy, color, and cultural richness.
Chinese New Year Parade in the West End for vibrant floats and traditional performances.
Trafalgar Square for live cultural shows, martial arts, and festive entertainment.
Celebrating Lunar New Year Across the Globe
The beauty of Lunar New Year lies in its ability to bring people together, transcending borders and cultures. Whether celebrated with grand parades, family feasts, or quiet rituals of reflection, the holiday is a universal reminder of renewal, prosperity, and togetherness. Each destination offers its own unique take on the festivities, blending traditional customs with local flavors, making every celebration truly special.
From the vibrant streets of Beijing and the lantern-lit skies of Taipei to the multicultural charm of Sydney and San Francisco, there’s no shortage of incredible places to experience the magic of Lunar New Year. Whether you’re drawn to the mesmerizing dragon dances, the tantalizing aroma of festive treats, or the chance to immerse yourself in age-old traditions, these destinations promise unforgettable memories.
Wherever you choose to celebrate, Lunar New Year is a time to embrace joy, hope, and connection. As the year begins anew, let the holiday’s rich cultural heritage inspire you to explore, connect, and celebrate with the world.
