52nd Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival Celebration & Parade 2026

Vancouver’s 52nd Chinatown Spring Festival Celebration and Parade returns to mark the Lunar New Year with one of the city’s most vibrant cultural traditions. Held in the heart of Vancouver Chinatown, this annual event brings together community groups, performers, and families for a full day of colour, music, and heritage as the city welcomes the Year of the Fire Horse.

Recognized as one of the largest and longest-running Lunar New Year celebrations in Canada, the festival blends centuries-old traditions with Vancouver’s multicultural energy — making it a must-experience winter event for both locals and visitors.

🥁 Chinatown Spring Festival Parade

📅 Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM
📍 Start Location: Millennium Gate
🛣️ Route: Pender Street → Gore Avenue → Keefer Street
👥 Attendance: 100,000+ spectators expected

The 1.3 km parade is the highlight of the celebration, featuring more than 70 cultural and community groups. Expect a high-energy procession filled with:

• Traditional lion and dragon dances

• Multicultural dance troupes

• Marching bands and drummers

• Martial arts demonstrations

• Cultural performance groups from across Metro Vancouver

For the best views, arrive early near Millennium Gate or along Pender Street. Streets fill quickly as families gather to watch the colourful procession wind through historic Chinatown.

🚆 Getting There: Public transit is strongly recommended. The nearest station is Stadium–Chinatown SkyTrain Station, just a short walk from the parade route.

🎎 Free Cultural Fair After the Parade

⏰ Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Locations: Chinese Cultural Centre & Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Plaza

Following the parade, the celebration continues with a free Cultural Fair featuring live performances, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities. This relaxed afternoon program offers a chance to experience Lunar New Year traditions up close while enjoying music, dance, and interactive displays.

It’s a welcoming space for all ages to learn about Asian heritage and join in the festive spirit.

🏮 Cultural Stops Worth Visiting in Chinatown

Make a full day of your visit by exploring these iconic spots nearby:

🏛️ Chinese Canadian Museum
Discover powerful stories, hands-on workshops, and exhibits highlighting the history and contributions of Chinese Canadians.

🌿 Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Step into a peaceful Ming Dynasty–style garden where tea ceremonies, traditional music, and seasonal décor create a serene Lunar New Year atmosphere.

🛍️ International Village Mall
Browse festive decorations, red envelopes, and unique gifts while warming up indoors between celebrations.

🎉 Why You Should Go

• One of Canada’s largest Lunar New Year parades

• A rare chance to see traditional lion and dragon dances up close

• Free cultural programming suitable for the whole family

• A lively winter outing in one of Vancouver’s most historic neighbourhoods

Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or experiencing Lunar New Year festivities for the first time, the Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival offers a joyful and meaningful way to celebrate the season.