Lunar New Year, also sometimes known as Chinese New Year, will be celebrated in many countries throughout Asia, and many areas in the U.S. as well, on Feb. 17, 2026. Chicago’s Chinatown is home to one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in North America.
Here are some of the Lunar New Year celebrations taking place in Chicago and the suburbs to usher in the Year of the Snake.Â
Family-Friendly Lunar New Year Events in Chicago and the suburbs
Lunar New Year at Buffalo Grove Community Arts Center
Jan. 24, 2026Â
- Address: 225 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove
- Cost:Â Free
This Lunar New Year celebration features family-friendly activities such as live entertainment, crafts and more. Food and drinks are available to purchase. Registration required.
Lunar New Year Stories & Craft at South Shore Branch
Feb. 11, 2026
- Address: 2505 E. 73rd St., ChicagoÂ
- Cost:Â Free
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with an afternoon of Lunar New Year fun at the South Shore Branch. Kids can enjoy themed stories, a simple game and a hands-on craft to take home. This event is designed for children ages 5–12, but younger preschoolers are welcome with a caregiver.
Lunar New Year Celebration at Jeffery Manor Branch
Feb. 17, 2026
- Address: 2401 E. 100th St., Chicago
- Cost:Â Free, Registration Required
Kids ages 6–13 can enjoy horse-themed crafts, learn about zodiac animals and discover how Lunar New Year is celebrated around the world. This hands-on event offers a fun mix of creativity, learning and culture for young participants and their families.
Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration
Feb. 21, 2026
- Address: Argyle Street and Sheridan Road, Chicago
- Cost:Â Free
The parade will kick-off at 1 p.m. at Argyle Street and Sheridan Road. A number of local organizations are planning pop-ups with family-friendly activities.
Leathercraft: Horse Keychains for the Lunar New Year at Little Village Branch
Feb. 26, 2026
- Address: 2311 S. Kedzie Avenue, Chicago Â
- Cost:Â Free
Teens ages 13–19 can learn how to make their own horse-themed keychain while exploring the symbolism of the horse in Lunar New Year traditions. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided, making this a great hands-on activity for beginners and returning crafters alike.
Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
Mar. 1, 2026
- Address: Wentworth Avenue and Cermak Road, Chicago
- Cost:Â Free
The parade kicks off at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue, and heads north up Wentworth to Cermak Road. The parade features marching bands, colorful floats and traditional lion and dragon dances.
This article was updated on Dec. 26, 2025, by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator,Kari Zaffarano. The update includes adding family friendly Lunar New Year events to the ChicagoParent.com calendar and highlighted the best Lunar New Year events to check out with your family. For questions, contact Kari at kari@chicagoparent.com.
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