Your handy guide for celebrating Lunar New Year in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia!
Lunar New Year is a time of joy and celebration, bringing a month of exciting events, cultural exhibits, and vibrant performances. The Year of the Snake begins on January 29, 2025, and communities throughout the DMV are hosting incredible events to mark the occasion. Here’s how you can take part in the festivities!
Parades & Cultural Festivals
Lunar New Year Celebration at Tanger National Harbor
Tanger National Harbor is hosting its first Lunar New Year Celebration on Friday, February 7th, at 5:30 PM in the fireplace courtyard by Nike. The Wong People Association will perform a lion dance that will move through the center. The event includes educational activities highlighting Lunar New Year traditions and culture. TangerClub members will receive red envelopes with store offers, and Gold & Platinum members will get exclusive Tanger swag.
Annual Lunar New Year Experience at Fair Oaks Mall
Fair Oaks Mall will hold its 22nd annual Lunar New Year Celebration on February 8th and 9th. The event will feature traditional music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, and children’s arts and crafts. For schedules and updates, check the mall’s website and social media.
Lunar New Year Market
The National Museum of Asian Art at the Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building will host an early evening market to celebrate the Year of the Snake. The event will feature hands-on activities, lion dances, food, and artisan displays.
DC Chinese Lunar New Year Parade
The 2025 Annual Chinese Lunar New Year Parade will be held on Sunday, February 2, at 2:00 p.m. in Washington, D.C.’s Chinatown. Organized by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Washington, D.C. (CCBA) in collaboration with the DC Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA), this vibrant event will bring the community together to celebrate the Year of the Snake, marking the year 4723 in the lunar calendar. The streets will come alive with colorful floats, traditional lion dances, and performances, drawing revelers and spectators alike to join in the festivities.
Lunar New Year Celebration 2025, VA
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the community at Twin Lakes Golf Course on February 8, from 6 to 8 PM. The evening will feature live performances, captivating demonstrations, and delicious offerings from local food trucks. This festive gathering is designed to unite the community in honoring this cherished cultural tradition.
Concerts and Performances
2025 Lunar New Year Celebration with Xian Zhang
Ring in the Year of the Snake with a spectacular concert led by Music Director Xian Zhang, featuring pianist Min Kwon, the Peking University Alumni Chorus, the Starry Arts Children’s Chorus, and the Edison Chinese School Lion Dance Team. This festive event will also include a special performance by renowned opera star Michael Fabiano. Experience a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western traditions with beloved pieces such as Spring Festival Overture and highlights from Puccini’s timeless operas. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of music and culture!
National Ballet of China:Â Chinese New Year (A Ballet in Two Acts)
The National Ballet of China, known for its fusion of western ballet and Chinese culture, will perform a unique adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker set during a Chinese New Year celebration. The production tells the story of a young Chinese girl who embarks on a mystical journey through a world of festive traditions. The performance features vibrant characters and choreography, including depictions of the legendary monster Nian, elegant Fans, and dances inspired by Silk and Spinning Top. The story unfolds in the Porcelain Kingdom, showcasing a blend of Chinese folklore and classical ballet.
Washington Ballet – The Legend of the White Snake
The Washington Ballet will present The Legend of the White Snake, a performance based on a classic Chinese myth, brought to life through choreography. The show will run from February 8 to 16, 2025, at the Warner Theatre. Performances are scheduled for specific dates and times throughout the week, with evening shows on weekdays and matinee and evening options on weekends. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the Warner Theatre box office.
