Chicago’s Chinese New Year festivities: The ultimate guide

Chicago welcomes the Year of the Horse with vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations across the city. From colorful parades in Uptown and Chinatown to hands-on dumpling workshops, festive brunches and interactive community activities, the city comes alive with culture, food and family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re watching lion dances, exploring lantern displays or sampling traditional dishes, these events offer a perfect way to ring in the new year and experience Chicago’s rich Asian cultural traditions.

Here’s everything you need to plan your visit:

Feb 21 – Argyle Chinese New Year Parade, 1–5 PM, Argyle Street, Uptown
Kick off the celebrations with dancers, community groups, performers, and street festivities along this lively Uptown corridor. Shops and restaurants will host pop-ups and family-friendly activities.

Feb 21 – Mar 5 – Dumpling-Making Workshops & Festive Dinners, Times Vary, Uptown, Chinatown, Lakeview
Get hands-on with cooking workshops and enjoy traditional family-style Lunar New Year dinners at participating restaurants and community centers.

Feb. 14-15 & 21-22 -Chinese New Year Dumpling Making Dinner is a long-running, festive celebration hosted by the Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute that brings together friends and families to welcome the Chinese New Year in delicious, hands-on style. Set in Chinatown at Hing Kee Restaurant’s 2nd floor, the event runs multiple afternoons in February (Feb. 14–15 and Feb. 21–22, 2026) and pairs cultural storytelling and a traditional Chinese lion dance with a communal dumpling-making experience that’s been a Chicago favorite since 2005. Guests learn about Chinese New Year traditions, practice folding their own dumplings, and enjoy a banquet of authentic Chinese dishes—including classics like Mongolian beef and vegetarian choices—alongside the lively, celebratory atmosphere. This beloved event consistently sells out each year, making it a memorable way to roll, fold, and feast your way into the Lunar New Year. (eventbrite.com)

Feb 22 – Mar 3 – Afternoon Tea & Brunch Buffets, 11 AM–3 PM, The Peninsula Chicago & Select Hotels
Indulge in dim sum, Peking duck, and special Lunar New Year treats while catching lion dance performances at select hotels.

Mar 1 – Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade, 12–4 PM, Wentworth Avenue, Chinatown
Experience the city’s historic Chinatown parade with lion and dragon dances, marching bands, floats, street food, and cultural performances.

Feb 21 – Mar 5 – Community Celebrations & Cultural Activities, 11 AM–6 PM, Argyle Street & Chinatown
Explore lantern displays, music, calligraphy workshops, and interactive family-friendly activities throughout the holiday period. Most events are free.

Plan your visit now and immerse yourself in Chicago’s rich Chinese New Year traditions, colorful parades and delicious festive food!

(For more events, click here)

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(Article updated from original on 2/9/26)