Bay Area Celebrates Lunar New Year with Dance, Festivities, and Cultural Events

The Bay Area is brimming with Lunar New Year celebrations throughout February and March, offering a diverse range of events to welcome the Year of the Horse. From traditional lion dances and cultural performances to art exhibitions and music festivals, there’s something for everyone.

Chung Ngai Dance Troupe Performances

The Chung Ngai Dance Troupe (中藝舞蹈團), established in 1966, will be performing throughout the Bay Area as part of the Lunar New Year festivities. Founded in San Francisco’s Chinatown, the troupe’s mission is to preserve Chinese culture through the performing arts. Attendees can meet the performers and learn about the troupe’s history at events like the Exploratorium’s After Dark event.

Featured Events

• After Dark: Lunar New Year at the Exploratorium (February 19): Experience a lion dance performance by the Chung Ngai Dance Troupe, followed by a chance to meet the performers and learn about Lunar New Year traditions. More details are available on the Exploratorium’s website.
• Lunar New Year Events in San Francisco (February – March): San Francisco is hosting a variety of events, including the iconic Chinese New Year Parade on March 7, starting at Second and Market streets. Olympic gold medalist Eileen Gu will serve as the Grand Marshal. Visit chineseparade.com for more information.
• SF Beer Week (February 21): Celebrate Bay Area brewers with unlimited tastings, live music, and more at this rain-or-shine festival.
• Live Music and Performances: Enjoy a diverse lineup of musical performances, including sets by CupcakKe, Pavement’s Stephen Malkmus, Jay Som, Hozier, Joan Baez, and Van Morrison, honoring blues legend Taj Mahal.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore revolutionary printmaking, admire magnolia trees in bloom, and participate in art workshops, and activities.

Additional Events

• Printmaking Reception (February 19, 5-8 p.m.): Explore work by an artist and former minister of culture for the Black Panther Party.
• Magnolia Bloom (February 19-22): Admire over 200 magnolia trees at one of the country’s most significant collections.
• CCA Art Events (February 19-22): The Center for Art and Public Life hosts free exhibitions and workshops.
• Music Festival (February 19-March 1): An 11-day independent music festival at multiple venues.
• “The Last Dance” Party (February 20, 9 p.m.): A themed party inspired by the HBO series.
• Year of the Fire Horse Performance (February 20, 5:30 p.m.): Pianist Yang Bao and violinist Nancy Zhou perform.
• Formula 1 Event (February 21, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.): Watch Formula 1 cars and a special appearance by Yuko Tsunoda.
• Family Lunar New Year Celebration (February 21, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.): Enjoy art activities, mahjong, dance, and science.
• Throwback Night (February 21, 9:30 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.): Relive the Vine era.
• Intimate Concert (February 21, 8:30 p.m.): Catch an indie songwriter.
• Lunar New Year Marketplace (February 21, 12 p.m.): Enjoy delights from Dumpling Time and Boba Guys with performances from LiondanceMe, Nguyen Dance Company, and Urisawe Korean Dance and Drumming.
• Fundraiser for Muttville (February 22, 3-7 p.m.): A final concert at Thee Parkside to support senior dog adoption.
• Lunar New Year at SF Botanical Garden (February 22, 12-2 p.m.): Enjoy tai chi, singing, and magic.

The Bay Area’s Lunar New Year celebrations promise a vibrant and culturally rich experience for all. As the festivities continue through March, residents and visitors alike have ample opportunities to participate in the traditions and welcome the Year of the Horse.