New Haven Celebrates Lunar New Year at Lunarfest

Annual festival draws crowds for 15th year in Connecticut's largest Lunar New Year celebration.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:53pm

New Haven's 15th annual Lunarfest celebration of Lunar New Year took place on February 21, 2026, drawing crowds to events throughout the city. Billed as the "largest celebration of Lunar New Year in Connecticut," the festival featured a variety of activities marking the Year of the Horse.

Why it matters

Lunarfest has become a highly anticipated annual tradition in New Haven, showcasing the city's diverse Asian American community and drawing visitors from across the state to experience the vibrant cultural festivities.

The details

Lunarfest featured a range of events including traditional lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, Asian cuisine, live music and dance performances, and vendor booths selling crafts and other goods. The festival took place at multiple locations throughout downtown New Haven, allowing attendees to explore the city's Chinatown and other Asian American-owned businesses and cultural hubs.

  • Lunarfest took place on February 21, 2026.

The players

Lunarfest

An annual festival in New Haven, Connecticut that celebrates Lunar New Year and is billed as the largest such celebration in the state.

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The takeaway

Lunarfest has become an integral part of New Haven's cultural calendar, bringing the community together to honor Asian traditions and providing an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience the vibrant diversity of the city.