Kauai Celebrates Lunar New Year with 'Hearts and Horses' Weekend

Festivities include Chinese lions, firecrackers, music, and dancing across the island

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Kauai residents can look forward to a lively 'Hearts and Horses' weekend filled with Lunar New Year celebrations, including Chinese lions, firecrackers, a variety of music and dancing at various locations around the island from Friday through the weekend.

Why it matters

The annual Lunar New Year celebrations on Kauai bring the community together to honor cultural traditions and welcome the new year, while also raising awareness about fireworks safety and wildfire prevention.

The details

The festivities kick off on Friday with a Valentine's Day Dance at the Kukui Grove Center, followed by Lunar New Year celebrations on Saturday featuring a Chinese dragon, the Hearts and Dragons Market, and performances by Tsunami Taiko. Other events include a Valentine's Show Down at Waimea Canyon Middle School and a 'Music of Love' concert. The Kauai Fire Department also emphasizes the importance of fireworks safety and wildfire prevention during this time.

  • The 'Hearts and Horses' weekend celebrations run from Friday, February 14, 2026 through the weekend.
  • The Lunar New Year, the Year of the Fire Horse, falls on February 17, 2026.

The players

Sarah Tochiki

Leads the Kauai Community College Jazz Ensemble.

Kauai's Tsunami Taiko

A local ensemble of young people who will perform at the Shops at Kukuiula's Lunar New Year celebration.

Lady Ipo

A special performer at the Waimea Canyon Middle School's Valentine's Show Down.

Kimberly Hope

Violinist performing at the 'Music of Love' concert at the Kapaa United Church of Christ Community Room.

Alina Evanoff

Violinist performing at the 'Music of Love' concert at the Kapaa United Church of Christ Community Room.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Kauai Fire Department will be monitoring the use of fireworks and enforcing safety regulations on Lunar New Year, February 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Kauai's Lunar New Year celebrations bring the community together to honor cultural traditions, while also highlighting the importance of fireworks safety and wildfire prevention during this festive time of year.