Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year, 農曆新年, 中國新年 in traditional Chinese or 农历新年, 中国新年 in simplified Chinese, begins a new year for the traditional lunar calendar by marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring. For many years this holiday has been celebrated with the annual Chinese Lunar New Year Parade in D.C.'s historic Chinatown neighborhood, bringing together business leaders, local organizations and community members. 2021 is the Year of the Ox, signifying hard work, honesty and positivity as we embark on a year of healing and renewal. Although we cannot gather together in person, we offer virtual celebrations to continue the Lunar New Year traditions.
Lunar New Year Virtual Activities
Friday, Feb. 12 | 6 p.m.
Welcoming the Lunar New Year with Mayor Muriel Bowser
An opening ceremony and observance for this year's Lunar New Year holiday!
Saturday, Feb. 13 | 2 p.m.
Celebrating the Lunar New Year: A Parade of Chinatown Memories
Watch a lion dance, learn about Chinatown parades of the past, and participate in interactive activities!
Check out our regularly scheduled story time and family engagement activities with Lunar New Year themes:
Friday, Feb. 12 at 10:30 a.m. & 4 p.m. Access the complete YouTube playlist of story time and craft activities here, available throughout the Lunar New Year weekend!
These photos of past Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations are from the Washington Evening Star collection, accessible through The People’s Archive
Books celebrating the Lunar New Year and Chinese American Heritage:
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goDigital Resources to Learn More About Chinese Cultural Heritage:
Kanopy: Candles for New Years: a story of the Lahu people of China
Freegal: "Chinese New Year" an album by Heritage Dragon
Alexander Street’s Contemporary Global Sound: Explore the music of Beijing, Sichuan and the Yunnan province
Access Videos on Demand: Confucius Was A Foodie: Celebrations, Ceremonies and the Dumpling
Community Partners:
DC Public Library expresses its appreciation for community partners who so proactively engage with the Chinatown community and initiate cultural initiatives and compelling programs throughout the year. Our partners for these events include Mayor's Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs, The Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of D.C., the 1882 Foundation, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States, and the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum's A Right to the City exhibition staff.