Lunar New Year Downtown: Tradition and Treasures in the Heart of the City
How to Honor This Special Festival
Looking to celebrate the Lunar New Year in historic San Diego? You’re in luck: One of the year’s biggest parties hits the streets in observance of the holiday. With everything from cultural performances to mouthwatering cuisine, we promise you’ll come up with plenty of souvenirs, whether it’s albums full of photos or special treasures you’ve crafted yourself. Learn about some of the top Lunar New Year celebrations in San Diego in 2018, and get ready for an exhilarating day.
Annual San Diego Chinese New Year Food And Cultural Fair
Held Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12, this vibrant (and free!) celebration hosted by Silk Road Productions is all about family activities. Kids can learn to make lanterns before seeing them flying high during the dragon parade, cheer on the talented acrobats and musicians, and browse dozens of beautiful traditional Chinese handcrafts.
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., rain or shine
Third Avenue and J Street
Lunar New Year Tết Festival At SDCCU
Beloved for its lion dances throughout the day, the Lunar New Year Tet Festival is an outstanding introduction to Vietnamese culture. Among the roster of activities, there will be a cultural village, a pageant contest, carnival rides, and an incredible array of foods to try. If you’re looking for a stadium-size event, this is it.
Friday, February 9 – Sunday, February 11
SDCCU Stadium
A Dragon’s Tale: Chinese New Year Performance
Although it’s a bit further out, this event is a perfect choice for families seeking a quiet alternative to the big festivals above. Visit the La Jolla Library for a delightful interactive performance about the Chinese zodiac and the formidable meaning of the dragon. With a dragon dance performed by the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum as the centerpiece of the occasion, this beautiful free event is both educational and inspiring.
Tuesday, February 6
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
La Jolla/Riford Library
Learn more about events at Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld, and check out our Calendar.