It’s almost time to give lucky envelopes and decorate with the color red – Lunar New Year, a 15-day celebration, starts on Wednesday. Lunar New Year is considered the most important holiday in China and within Chinese communities around the world. It marks the first new moon on the lunar calendar.
Here’s where to celebrate in Austin:
🌚 Lunar New Year Festival at The Paper + Craft Pantry
Lion dances, dragon dances, vendors, food, and more are all part of the Lunar New Year Festival at The Paper + Craft Pantry, 1023 Springdale Road, on Feb. 2. The fun starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 5 p.m. Tickets are donation-based and organizers suggest $10-$15.
🎊 Lunar New Year Carnival at Xiang Yun Temple
Head to Xiang Yun Temple in West Austin, 6720 North Capital of Texas Highway, on Feb. 2 at 11 a.m. for performances, games, souvenirs, and food. The carnival is free to attend, but food vouchers are $20 and can be purchased online.
🐍 UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum’s Lunar New Year Events
UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum is hosting two Lunar New Year events. On Feb. 4 at 6 p.m., the museum is open late for a celebration that includes a glow-in-the-dark dragon-lion dance. Tickets are $12. On Feb 9 starting at 11 a.m., the museum is hosting a free family day that includes crafts and dance performances.
🦁 Lunar New Year Dance Party with Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team
The University of Texas at Austin’s Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team will perform at Austin Public Library’s Yarborough Branch on Feb. 8 at 11 a.m. Come ready for a blacklight dance party, face paint, and crafts. The event is free and open to the public.
🏮 Lunar New Year Celebration & Beer Release at Meanwhile Brewing Co.
Head to Meanwhile Brewing Co., 3901 Promontory Point Drive, on Feb. 15 at noon for a market featuring Asian-American vendors. Summit Lion Dance performs at 2 p.m. The brewery is also releasing a beer in collaboration with Kaiju Cut & Sew, and food trucks will be selling specials. The event is free to attend.
