Lunar New Year (aka Chinese New Year), one of the biggest celebrations in Asian cultures, falls on February 17th. Usually commencing on the second new moon after the winter solstice, the Lunar New Year holiday continues until the arrival of the full moon. Each year is traditionally represented by one of 12 zodiac animals that are assigned in a sequence.

This year’s designated animal is the horse, the 7th animal in the zodiac order. In the Chinese zodiac, the horse represents energy, independence, discovery, and advancement. Enjoy exploring this important cultural celebration at one of these events, and check out our article on Black History Month celebrations to round out your February.

Ring in the Year of the Horse in the Main Line

Asian communities mark the Lunar New Year holiday with fireworks, parades, dragon and lion dance performances, and glowing lanterns. Traditional foods, such as Chinese dumplings and noodles, also play a big role in the celebrations. Join the fun at one of these Lunar New Year celebrations and activities around the Main Line and in Philadelphia.

Lunar New Year Celebration

Main Line Art Center, 746 Panmure Rd., Haverford
February 8, from 12-2 pm

Welcome the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse with interactive art activities for all ages and face painting by Studio 323. Outdoors, experience a performance of the traditional Lion Dance by The Philadelphia Suns. The parking lot opens for this popular event at 11:30 am. Then, the Lion Dance begins promptly at noon, followed by art activities. This event is free, but a $10 donation is suggested.

Lunar New Year Crafternoon

Gladwyne Library, 362 Righters Mill Rd., Gladwyne
February 11, from 3-5 pm

Gallop over to the Gladwyne Library and get crafty celebrating the Year of the Horse. The Gladwyne Library is marking the Lunar New Year with a special craft activity for children. Visitors can stop by the children’s room to create their own festive horse. Supplies including vibrant paper, sparkly stickers, and bold markers will be available for decorating. No registration needed.

Ludington: Lunar New Year Crafts

Ludington Library, Ludington Junior Room, 5 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr,
February 17-20, from 12-5 pm

Ring in the Year of the Horse with special Lunar New Year crafts in the Ludington Junior Room. From Tuesday through Friday between 12 pm and 5 pm, young crafters ages 3 and up can explore this important cultural celebration through creative activities. The Lunar New Year, one of the most significant holidays in Asian cultures, is traditionally a time for family, renewal, and good fortune. Children may complete one craft per day on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration necessary—all are welcome.

Lunar New Year at The Please Touch Museum

Memorial Hall, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia
February 21, from 9 am – 4:30 pm

Welcome the Lunar New Year at The Please Touch Museum! Enjoy two Lion Dance performances by the Philadelphia Suns alongside festive activities including Zodiac Animal Matching in the Tot Spot, story times with Ruby’s Lunar New Year, and Chinese calligraphy workshops. These special programs bring the joy and traditions of this important cultural celebration to life for the whole family.

Lion Dance on State Street

Plum Street Park, 18-98 S. Plum St., Media
February 21, from 2-4 pm

The Lion Dance, a cherished Media tradition, will begin in front of Plum Street Park. The procession will make its way toward Orange Street before looping back to greet local shops and businesses throughout the borough. This beloved community celebration will last approximately two hours, concluding in front of Peking Restaurant.

Celebrate Lunar New Year

Whether you’re crafting with your little ones, watching the spectacular Lion Dance, or exploring cultural traditions through art and performance, these Main Line celebrations offer meaningful ways to welcome the Year of the Horse. Get out there with your family and embrace the spirit of renewal, prosperity, and community that defines the Lunar New Year.

Lead photograph courtesy of the Philadelphia Suns. Beth Gilbert-Crowell contributed to this article.

Find family-friendly things to do every day of the week on the Main Line Parent Events Calendar.