6 hours ago
14
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - While Chinese Americans only account for 19% of the nation’s population, the Lunar New Year in the USA still bursts with vibrant energy and excitement. This festive celebration, steeped in cultural heritage, brings communities together through parades and other events.
Whether you're of Asian descent or simply looking to experience something new, this special occasion promises everyone an opportunity to create new memories filled with joy and bliss.
List of Best Cities to Celebrate Lunar New Year in the USA
According to Expedia and Lonely Planet San Francisco is the home to the largest Lunar New Year celebration in the U.S. Other cities adorned with the excitement include:
1. San Francisco, California
For those who wish to experience the largest celebration of the Lunar New Year in the USA, San Francisco is the place to be. Home to the oldest Chinatown in the country, this vibrant tradition dates back to 1851. What started as a one-day celebration has now grown into a multi-day extravaganza that draws millions of spectators annually.
Expect to witness a parade complete with traditional music, colorful costumes, and the enormous illuminated dragon on February 15. The event also includes the Miss Chinatown pageant, where the contestants will be waving gracefully from their ornate floats.
2. New York City, New York
New York City is always buzzing, and the Chinese New Year celebration is no different. Manhattan’s Chinatown—the largest in the U.S.—comes alive with colorful parades, fireworks, and live music. The main parade takes place on February 15, with additional events such as the New York Philharmonic’s Lunar New Year performance on February 11 and the Firecracker Ceremony on January 29. Don't forget to visit the local vendors for authentic Chinese food to truly soak in the Lunar New Year vibe.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is home to the third largest Chinatown in the U.S., and during the Lunar New Year, the neighborhood goes all out with traditional lion dances, beauty pageants, and arts and crafts demonstrations. Be sure to visit on February 9, when the festivities are at their peak and you can walk among the lively crowds to experience the excitement.
4. Houston, Texas
Lunar New Year celebrations in the USA are not to be missed, especially the ones in Houston. The city's Asian district transforms into a hub of Chinese cultural heritage and hosts the Texas Lunar Festival on February 1. Other events take place throughout the city, including a lion dance and theatrical performances at the Asia Society Texas Center.
5. Spokane, Washington
Though the celebrations were on a hiatus until 2022, Spokane’s Lunar New Year events have returned stronger than ever. This city offers an intimate and exciting experience, with community events like Lunar New Year celebrations at the Spokane Convention Center on February 1. Enjoy traditional food, performances, and dances, along with a fireworks show in the evening that adds to the festive atmosphere.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago brings not one, but two Lunar New Year celebrations. Known as a home to global migrant communities, the city embraces the occasion with festivities that reflect both Chinese traditions and the unique flavors of the city’s diverse cultures. The major celebrations will be on February 8 and 9, each shining for its special cultural charm.
7. Honolulu, Hawaii
In Honolulu, where Chinese Americans make up about 40% of Oahu's population, Lunar New Year celebrations are infused with a tropical flair. For 75 years, the island has hosted the biggest Lunar New Year parade in the Hawaiian Islands, featuring lion dances by 25 troupes, colorful street festivals, and 50 vendors offering everything from food to traditional crafts.
8. Westminster, California
Step into cultural fervor at the Little Saigon in Westminster. The Tt Festival weaves together traditional Vietnamese performances, food, and entertainment that will sweep you up in its joyous energy.
What is not to be missed is obviously the grand parade, which dazzles with Vietnamese celebrity singers. Don’t forget to visit the enchanting Flower Festival at the Asian Garden Mall, a blooming celebration that has opened its doors to visitors since early January.
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia's Lunar New Year Festival unfolds in full splendor. In the heart of Chinatown, two parades will pulse with music, costumes, and lion dances on January 8 and February 2. But the festivities don't stop there, as landmarks like the Penn Museum and Dilworth Park also come to bloom with similar energy.
Wherever you go to celebrate the Lunar New Year in the USA, each city invites you to connect with culture and joy. As exciting as the parades are, you surely don’t want to miss delight in the staple Chinese New Year dishes for good fortune and happiness.
Editor's Choice: 10 Best Chinese Restaurants in Hong Kong to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 with Families
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
