Cleveland's Li Wah Restaurant Hosts Lunar New Year Celebration

Vibrant lion dance performances, red envelope traditions, and prosperity-themed menu mark the Year of the Horse

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Li Wah, a beloved dim sum restaurant in Cleveland's Chinatown, is hosting a lively Lunar New Year celebration featuring traditional Chinese lion dance performances, the exchange of red envelopes called hongbao, and a special menu filled with dishes symbolizing luck and prosperity for the Year of the Horse.

Why it matters

Lunar New Year is a significant cultural event celebrated across many Asian communities. Li Wah's festivities allow Clevelanders to experience and participate in these time-honored traditions, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation within the local community.

The details

The Kwan Lion Dance Team will perform the iconic lion dance at Li Wah on select nights through February 27th. The high-energy performances feature pounding drums, vibrant costumes, and acrobatic movements meant to drive away bad luck and welcome good fortune for the new year. Patrons can participate by feeding the lion a red envelope, a cherished Lunar New Year tradition. Li Wah is also offering a special limited-time menu with dishes symbolizing longevity, prosperity, and good luck.

  • The Lunar New Year celebration at Li Wah runs through February 27, 2026.
  • Lion dance performances are scheduled on select nights during this period.

The players

Li Wah

A beloved dim sum restaurant in Cleveland's Chinatown that hosts an annual Lunar New Year celebration.

Kwan Lion Dance Team

The talented dance troupe performing the traditional Chinese lion dance at Li Wah's Lunar New Year event.

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What’s next

Reservations are required for most lion dance performances at Li Wah, and many dates are already sold out, so interested patrons are encouraged to book their tickets soon.

The takeaway

Li Wah's Lunar New Year celebration allows Cleveland residents to immerse themselves in vibrant Chinese cultural traditions, fostering a greater sense of community and cross-cultural understanding in the city.