The streets are covered in confetti, people dress in red and gold with beautifully painted faces or masks, and the sounds of drums and bells and huge dragons are everywhere. This is what Chinese New Year looks like in New York. The celebration of this holiday is both visually and atmospherically impressive. The street parties with vendors selling great Chinese food, different performances, music, firecrackers, and entertainment for all ages last for almost two weeks.
Lunar New Year Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival (February 10, 2024)
Festivities start with a vibrant cultural festival at Sara D. Roosevelt Park on Grand Street, Chinatown. Firecrackers are supposed to scare off evil spirits, and dragons bring good luck in the upcoming year. The celebration from 11 am to 3 pm features colorful performances and vendors.
Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade (February 25, 2024)
The main Chinatown Lunar New Year event in NYC is the amazing Parade, with massive floats, lion dances, and firecrackers, which takes place on the main streets of Little Italy and Chinatown. The Lunar New Year parade kicks off at 1 pm. The route usually lies through Mott & Canal Streets, Chatham Square, and East Broadway Eldridge, finishing on Eldridge and Forsyth Streets, next to Sara D. Roosevelt Park. The event is free to watch but come in advance to get front-row spots. Food vendors will be available from noon to 4 pm.
