Celebrating Chinese New Year: Festivities, Traditions, and Community Spirit
12 February 2026News & Announcements
Chinese New Year (also called Lunar New Year or Spring Festival) is one of the most important traditional holidays in Chinese culture, marking the start of the lunar calendar year. In 2026, the Year of the Horse begins on Tuesday, February 17th, and festivities typically continue through to the Lantern Festival about 15 days later. The holiday is a time for family reunions, reflection, honouring ancestors, sharing meals, and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead.
LOCAL CHINESE NEW YEAR EVENTS AND GATHERINGS
Across the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland, cultural groups and community organizations are hosting events that welcome residents to learn, connect, and celebrate together. Here are just a few to check out:
- Fraser Valley Regional Library Chinese New Year Celebration (February 14, 2026) – A free, all-ages event featuring a traditional tea ceremony, gentle tai chi, Chinese art calligraphy, and light refreshments including oolong tea and New Year cookies. Click here to learn more.
- Chilliwack Cultural Centre Lunar New Year Celebration (February 15, 2026) – Celebrate the Year of the Horse with this ticketed event that includes music, lion dance, and martial arts. Click here to learn more.
- Museum of Surrey Lunar New Year Celebration (February 21, 2026) – In partnership with Chinese Village Club, this free event features lion dances, live performances, traditional and modern dance, tai chi demonstrations, storytelling, and crafts. Click here to learn more.
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING CHINESE NEW YEAR
Chinese New Year is also a season of generosity and community care. Traditions like giving red envelopes (hongbao), sharing meals with family and neighbours, and supporting local charities reflect values of kindness, gratitude, and fostering good fortune for others.
At ACF, we know that community well-being grows when we celebrate diverse traditions, learn from one another, and support acts of kindness that bring people together. Chinese New Year reminds us how culture, generosity, and connection can help build a stronger, more inclusive Abbotsford.