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Northern Virginia is welcoming the Year of the Horse with festivals, performances, food, crafts and family activities across the region.
Lunar New Year falls on February 17 in 2026, beginning 16 days of celebrations. Here are seven local events marking the occasion.
Lunar New Year Story Time
Children’s author Patricia Tanumihardja will lead a storytime at Mon Chouchou and sign copies of her new book, Monkey’s Sweet Surprise. The story takes place in a world shaped by Southeast Asian zodiac traditions.
February 13, 10–10:45 a.m.
Reston Community Center Celebration
The Hunters Woods location of Reston Community Center will kick off the Year of the Horse with food, activities and opportunities to win prizes.
February 13, noon–2 p.m.
2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston
17th Annual Chinese New Year Festival
The Asian Community Service Center’s annual festival will bring a dragon parade, stage performances, Asian cuisine, crafts and other activities to Luther Jackson Middle School. The volunteer-led nonprofit organizes the event to give children an opportunity to experience longstanding Chinese traditions and culture.
February 14, 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
3020 Gallows Road, Falls Church
Blooming Traditions Showcase
Dance, music and cultural artistry will take the Main Theater stage at Capital One Hall for a Lunar New Year program presented by Art Elevation Collective.
February 15, 3 p.m.
7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons
Year of the Red Fire Horse Celebration
The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company will blend contemporary and traditional elements in a 90-minute show at McLean Community Center. The program includes dragon and lion dances, plus a new work created for the Year of the Horse.
February 18, 7 p.m.
1234 Ingleside Drive, McLean
Twin Lakes Golf Course Celebration
Guests can take part in crafts and games, sample Asian cuisine and watch live martial arts, dance and music performances at Twin Lakes Golf Course. Registration is required by midnight on February 19.
February 21, 6–8 p.m.
6201 Union Mill Road, Clifton
Franklin Park Arts Center Celebration
Franklin Park Arts Center will close out the month with a Year of the Horse celebration featuring the Choy Wun Dance Troupe, drumming and music demonstrations, and craft-making activities.
February 28, 3–5 p.m.
36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville