Chinese New Year 2026

Planning to travel during Chinese New Year 2026?

This guide explores the holiday’s cultural history and the best places around the world to join the celebrations.

A Look Back: The Origins of Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival in China, dates back more than 3,500 years. Traditionally tied to agricultural practices and the lunar calendar, the holiday marked the end of winter and the beginning of spring planting season.

The legend of the monster Nian is central to the origin story. According to folklore, Nian would emerge at the start of each year to attack villages. People discovered that red decorations, firecrackers, and loud noises would scare it off—customs that remain central to the celebration today.

The holiday begins on the first new moon of the lunar year and ends 15 days later with the Lantern Festival. Each year is associated with one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, cycling through symbols that carry specific meanings.

Also Read: Mandarin Cheat Sheet: Essential Mandarin Phrases for American Travelers

When Is Chinese New Year in 2026?

In 2026, Chinese New Year begins on Wednesday, February 17, marking the start of the Year of the Horse. Festivities will run through March 3, concluding with the Lantern Festival.

Families typically gather on New Year’s Eve (February 16) for a reunion dinner. Over the following two weeks, celebrations include visiting relatives, lighting lanterns, giving red envelopes, and enjoying symbolic foods. Public parades, fireworks, and temple events are also common throughout the period.

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year

If you’re planning to travel during Chinese New Year, these destinations offer memorable experiences:

Beijing, China

Temple fairs, lion dances, and traditional foods make Beijing a top destination for authentic Spring Festival celebrations.

Hong Kong, China

High-energy festivities include a massive fireworks show over Victoria Harbor, flower markets, and the Chinese New Year Night Parade. Horse racing is also a popular attraction.

Shanghai, China

The Yuyuan Garden lantern display and neighborhood events blend modern celebration with ancient customs.

Singapore

Chinatown lights up with decorations and the Chingay Parade, a multicultural event featuring dance, acrobatics, and floats. Reunion feasts and symbolic dishes are central to the celebration.

San Francisco, California

Home to the largest Chinese New Year parade outside Asia, San Francisco’s Chinatown hosts music, martial arts, food stalls, and traditional dragon and lion dances.

London, England

London’s Chinatown offers one of Europe’s largest Chinese New Year celebrations, with live performances, cultural exhibitions, and food festivals around Trafalgar Square.

Also Read: Where in the World to Go for New Year's Celebrations

How Chinese New Year Is Commonly Celebrated

Celebrations vary by region and family tradition, but several customs are widely observed:

Red envelopes (hongbao) are given by elders to children and younger relatives, symbolizing luck and prosperity.
Reunion dinners feature symbolic foods: dumplings for wealth, fish for abundance, and long noodles for longevity.
Public displays include dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and firecrackers to ward off bad luck.
Lantern Festival on the fifteenth day includes lighting lanterns, solving riddles, and eating sweet rice balls (tangyuan).

The Importance of Travel Protection During Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is one of the busiest travel periods globally. In China, the Spring Festival season triggers “Chunyun,” the largest annual human migration. Millions travel to reunite with family, leading to crowded transportation, booked accommodations, and potential weather-related delays.

Travel protection from Generali Global Assistance may help safeguard your trip. If your travel is disrupted due to illness, weather delays, or other covered reasons. , plans can help reimbursement for nonrefundable expenses. This includes coverage for:

Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption
Missed connections and Travel Delays
Baggage Delay or Loss
Emergency Assistance and Transportation

Support is available 24/7 to help coordinate care or assist with travel disruptions. Travel protection plans are designed to help travelers navigate complex or crowded travel environments with confidence.

Woman in traditional Chinese garb walking through a festival

Smart Travel Tips for Chinese New Year

Book early: Flights and accommodations fill quickly, especially across East and Southeast Asia.
Check visa requirements: Entry rules vary by destination, so confirm well in advance.
Expect closures: Many businesses and government offices close for several days.
Respect traditions: Red clothing is considered lucky; black or white may be seen as inauspicious.
Learn basic etiquette: Understand customs around greetings, gift-giving, and temple visits.
Consider travel protection: Plans may help manage costs and if unexpected delays or interruptions occur.

In Summary

Chinese New Year is more than just a holiday—it’s a time to reconnect with loved ones, honor traditions, and celebrate new beginnings. Whether you're watching fireworks in Hong Kong, enjoying a reunion dinner in Singapore, or joining a parade in San Francisco, it’s a meaningful time to explore the world.

If you’re planning to travel during this festive season, a little preparation can go a long way. From booking early to understanding local customs, thoughtful planning helps ensure a smoother journey. With travel protection from Generali Global Assistance, you may have added support if the unexpected happens—so you can focus on enjoying the celebration and welcoming the Year of the Horse with confidence.

Explore your travel protection options here