Celebrate Lunar New Year in Milwaukee and Beyond

From university events to casino dining, there are plenty of ways to ring in the Year of the Fire Horse in Wisconsin.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Lunar New Year, which falls on February 17 this year, marks the start of the Year of the Fire Horse. In Milwaukee and across Wisconsin, there are a variety of events and activities planned to celebrate the 15-day festival, including university cultural showcases, community gatherings, and special menu offerings at a local casino hotel.

Why it matters

Lunar New Year is an important cultural celebration for many Asian and Asian-American communities. These events provide opportunities for people to come together, learn about traditions, and foster a sense of community.

The details

The celebrations in Milwaukee and Wisconsin include tai chi demonstrations, Chinese instrument performances, calligraphy lessons, games, and traditional foods and desserts. Some of the key events are hosted by campus cultural groups at Marquette University and Milwaukee Area Technical College, as well as a three-day community celebration at Titletown in Green Bay. Additionally, Kuumba Juice & Coffee in Milwaukee is hosting a Lunar New Year party with mahjong and Taiwanese cuisine, while Potawatomi Casino Hotel's Ruyi Restaurant is featuring a special menu inspired by the holiday.

  • Lunar New Year is on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The 15-day Lunar New Year festival runs from February 17 to March 3, 2026.
  • The Marquette University event is on February 16 from 12-1:30 PM.
  • The MATC event is on February 17 from 12-1 PM.
  • The Titletown celebration is from February 17-19 from 5-7 PM each day.

The players

APIDA Employee Resource Group

A campus cultural group at Marquette University hosting a Lunar New Year celebration.

MATC Asian Affinity Group

The group hosting a Lunar New Year community event at Milwaukee Area Technical College.

Kuumba Juice & Coffee

A Milwaukee coffee shop hosting a Lunar New Year party with mahjong and Taiwanese food.

Potawatomi Casino Hotel

The casino hotel's Ruyi Restaurant is offering a special Lunar New Year menu.

Ace Champion

The performer who will play 12 different Asian flutes at the Titletown celebration.

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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)

The takeaway

These Lunar New Year celebrations in Milwaukee and Wisconsin provide opportunities for people to come together, learn about Asian cultures, and foster a sense of community. From university events to casino dining, there are a variety of ways for residents to ring in the Year of the Fire Horse.