Lunar New Year in San Diego
From the vibrant communities of San Diego's Convoy Asian Cultural District to the region’s world-class attractions and diverse neighborhoods, San Diego celebrates Lunar New Year with a myriad of inviting activities and happenings.
Each winter, the city comes alive with this multiday celebration, a major event in China and other Asian cultures. San Diego's Convoy District – one of the largest pan-Asian business districts in the nation – hosts such traditional festivities as a Lunar New Year Dumpling Party, where visitors can make their own dumplings (vegan ones included!), or try their hand at origami and games.
And that's just the start of the fun: From "wishing trees," Asian food specialties and more at San Diego's world-class attractions, to the Vietnamese community's music-filled San Diego Tết Festival in Mira Mesa, to the San Diego Chinese New Year Faire in the heart of Downtown, the many facets and cultures of Lunar New Year shine as bright as a full moon here.
Check out the events below and plan to join the festivities!
Lunar New Year at SeaWorld San Diego
When: Jan. 31 - Feb. 16, 2026 (during select dates)
Sights, sounds and scents of Asia come alive during a one-of-a-kind festival that’s fit for the whole family. Cultural entertainment, authentic food & beverage options, and festive décor will take over Wild Arctic Plaza for this special cultural celebration included with park admission.
San Diego Lunar New Year Festival
When: Feb. 13 - 15, 2026
Celebrate this new year with us in a festive environment with dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, games, food, and more!
San Diego Tet Festival
When: Feb. 20 - 22, 2026
Attracting more than 25,000 people every year from all over the city, the 3-day celebration features free admission, a number of new attractions, activities, games, food and live entertainment, including, but not limited to, A-list Vietnamese singers and performers, lion dancing, firecrackers and some of our most popular programs, the Miss Vietnam of San Diego pageant, Step-Up Dance and Golden Voice.
Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair
When: Feb. 21 - 22, 2026
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Chinese culture at the annual Chinese New Year Fair. Expect a vibrant showcase of performances, mouthwatering food, and engaging cultural displays that bring together families and communities..
San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair
When: Feb. 28 - Mar. 1, 2026
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at the San Diego Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair, a vibrant event in the heart of the city’s historic Chinatown district. Featuring traditional lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and cultural performances, the festival offers a rich showcase of Chinese heritage.
AANHPI Cultural Experiences
San Diego's Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities brim with cultural riches. Here's a sampling to discover:
San Diego Chinese Historical Society and Museum
The San Diego Chinese Historical Society and Museum (SDCHM) is a wellspring of the region's fascinating Chinese history, art and culture. The museum, located in the heart of San Diego's Asian Pacific Historic District, celebrates and shares the city's rich Chinese cultural heritage. It hosts rotating and permanent exhibits as well as frequent walking tours of the district, and its proximity to the waterfront touches on the community's important connections to trade and commerce.
House of China
Part of the beloved House of Pacific Relations International Cottages in Balboa Park — San Diego's cultural heart — the House of China was opened in 1935 and continues to host events celebrating Chinese culture and heritage. The cottage is open Saturdays and Sundays between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., and offers refreshments, exhibits and cultural information; each guest can also receive their own name in Chinese characters as a souvenir.
'Find Your San Diego' Guide to the Region's AANHPI Communities
For a deep dive into San Diego's vibrant Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities — including top cultural and culinary experiences — check out the Find Your San Diego collection of AANHPI articles written by local expert Marie Tutko. It's a great way to plan and launch your explorations of these welcoming communities all year long.