2026: Year of the Fire Horse
Chinese New Year (or Lunar New Year) arrives on February 17, 2026, ushering in the Year of the Fire Horse — a symbol of energy, resilience, and forward momentum.
That feels especially fitting for the DFW Metroplex, where Asian communities continue to grow and shape the region’s cultural landscape in exciting ways. With one of the largest and fastest-growing Asian populations in Texas, North Texas doesn’t just observe Lunar New Year — we celebrate it in full color, sound, and flavor.
One of the most anticipated celebrations is the Richardson Lunar New Year Festival, February 15, 2026, 11 am – 3 pm. Fun for all ages, this free event will feature stunning dragon and lion dances, musical and martial arts demos, art making, calligraphy, specialty booths and cultural performance. The event will be held at DFW Chinatown, 400 N. Greenville Ave. the epicenter of Asian culture in the Dallas metro area featuring a fantastic mix of restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries and cultural centers. Free parking will be available at the Dart – Arapaho Center Station (200 Woodall Dr. in Richardson), with free continuous shuttle service. Learn more info at richardsoncoredistrict.com
Another must-visit destination is Asia Times Square at 2625 W. Pioneer Pkwy in Grand Prairie. It’s 2026 Lunar New Year Celebration runs for the three consecutive weekends from Feb. 6 to Feb. 22 — the first and second featuring food and art vendors and performers. The third weekend is a Firecracker only event with Lion and Dragon Dances. ATS’s bustling night-market vibe makes it perfect for families and first-timers alike. Visit asiatimessquare.com for more info.
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with NorthPark Center, the Crow Museum of Asian Art of the University of Texas at Dallas, and Bookmarks, a Dallas Public Library on Feb. 21 from 10 am – 1 pm at NorthPark, 8687 N Central Expy., Dallas, Level One in NorthCourt.
The Center for Asian Studies at UTD, Texas Cultural Exchange Center (TCEC), and Dallas Huayun Orchestra also present a multicultural arts festival showcasing ethnic instrumental performances and dances at 7 pm, Feb. 13. More info about tickets will be available at utdallas.edu
Even if you don’t attend a formal festival, celebrating can be as simple as dining at a local Asian-owned restaurant, learning about Lunar New Year traditions, or wishing friends and neighbors a happy new year. In a region as diverse as DFW, Chinese New Year isn’t just a cultural holiday — it’s a community one.
