127th Golden Dragon Parade to Celebrate Unity in LA Chinatown

Annual parade features dragon and lion dances, multicultural performances, and a fiery finale on February 21.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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The 127th Golden Dragon Parade is set to take over Los Angeles' Chinatown on Saturday, February 21 from 1-4 PM. The parade, themed "Unity in the Community", will feature traditional Chinese dragon and lion dances alongside international troupes, marching bands, and cultural performances like salsa and ballet folklórico. Thousands of spectators are expected to line the streets to watch the colorful procession and enjoy the firecracker-filled finale.

Why it matters

The Golden Dragon Parade is a long-standing tradition that celebrates the diverse cultures and communities that make up Chinatown. As the neighborhood continues to evolve, the parade reflects that multicultural identity, showcasing both time-honored Chinese customs and the vibrant, contemporary spirit of the area.

The details

The parade will step off at North Hill Street and Ord Street, running along Broadway and Chinatown Central Plaza. In addition to the iconic dragon and lion dances performed by highly trained martial artists, the lineup will include salsa, ballet folklórico, and other international acts. After the procession, visitors can explore Chinatown's shops, restaurants, and food stalls, which are a major part of the celebration.

  • The 127th Golden Dragon Parade is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 1-4 PM.
  • The parade will step off at 1 PM and run until 4 PM.

The players

Mamie Hong Weinberg

Parade chair who calls the dragon and lion dances "unique to our culture" and notes that many of the performers are highly trained martial artists.

Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles

The organization that produces the Golden Dragon Parade, listing the 127th edition on its events calendar for February 21, 2026.

City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs

Identifies Chinatown Central Plaza at 823 North Hill St. as the festival hub and lists the main program running from 1-4 PM.

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What’s next

Organizers and ticket vendors advise arriving early; the parade's Eventbrite page lays out street-closure times, grandstand check-in instructions and other visitor tips, including that wristbands will be available at will-call near the grandstand on the day of the event.

The takeaway

The 127th Golden Dragon Parade in LA's Chinatown is a vibrant celebration of the neighborhood's diverse cultures and communities. By blending traditional Chinese customs with contemporary international performances, the parade reflects the evolving spirit of Chinatown and offers a festive experience for both longtime residents and first-time visitors.