Ways to Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Washington, DC

Brandon On / DC Chinese New Year Parade

Join the DowntownDC BID for the 2026 Lunar New Year Parade in honor of the Year of the Horse. The annual parade includes colorful and diverse contingents, a ceremony with traditional performances and an exciting firecracker finale. The parade historically kicks off at 6th and I Streets NW and the staged ceremony begins at the end of the parade route at 6th and H streets.
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6th and I Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001

Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center

As you walk through the bustling streets of Penn Quarter/Chinatown, you'll feel the energy of one of DC's most vibrant and historic neighborhoods. CityCenterDC provides high-end shopping and dining in an open-air setting, quality restaurants are abundant and museums are concentrated in historic locations in the neighborhood. The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery are housed in the same building, with the National Gallery of Art a short walk away. You can also check out a play at Ford’s Theatre or Shakespeare Theatre Company.

Tip: Look closely at the sidewalk bricks to find carvings of zodiac signs. 

Tous les Jours

Ring in the Lunar New Year with a festive meal in Washington, DC. A quintessential dining destination, Chinatown is home to restaurants, markets and food halls reflecting a variety of Asian cuisines. Luna Hall contains everything from dim sum to Asian-French fusion pastries, while special holiday menus provide an exclusive way to celebrate citywide.

The Kennedy Center offers a plethora of digital programming focused on the Lunar New Year, including performances from past celebrations, on its website. Enjoy videos and an array of virtual learning options from DC's most beloved cultural institution.