5 ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Alabama 2026

Lunar New Year begins Tuesday, Feb. 17, ushering in the Year of the Horse and a season of celebration across Alabama and around the world.

Marked by family gatherings, traditional foods and cultural performances, the holiday marks the beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar and invites communities to celebrate together.

What is the Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year follows the lunar calendar and is celebrated across many Asian cultures, including Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities. Traditions often include family gatherings, symbolic foods, cultural performances and wishes for luck and prosperity in the year ahead.

• Lunar New Year Timing:
  • Officially begins Feb. 17, 2026, following the lunar calendar.
  • Some Chinese astrology traditions mark the zodiac shift earlier, around Feb. 4 (Start of Spring).
• Astrological Context – Year of the Fire Horse:
  • Follows last year’s introspective Wood Snake, moving from reflection to action and forward momentum.
  • Energy is often tied to major life changes: switching jobs, relocating, ending relationships or expanding a family.
• Astrologer Advice:
  • Hong Kong-based astrologer Letao Wang likens the Fire Horse to “pouring gasoline into your car”: a burst of energy that can be productive but risky.
    • Tip: seize opportunities but avoid doing too much too fast.
• Why It Matters:
  • Astrology offers a lens for self-reflection and decision-making.
  • Fire Horse energy encourages those looking for a sign to make bold, positive changes.

For those ready to celebrate, Birmingham is hosting several Lunar New Year events this February, with cultural performances, food and family-friendly activities.

Many of these gatherings are just a short drive from the city, making it easy to experience the vibrant traditions of the Lunar New Year without traveling far.

1. East Asian Heritage Festival: Year of the Horse | Birmingham

Celebrate the Year of the Horse at the Birmingham Museum of Art’s annual East Asian Heritage Festival, an afternoon of performances, hands-on art activities, cultural demonstrations and food tastings for all ages. Guests can enjoy lion dance performances, crafts like calligraphy and origami, gallery tours and optional ticketed auditorium performances featuring traditional music and dance.

• When: Saturday, Feb. 21 | 1–5PM
• Where: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203
• More info

2. Celebrate with local restaurants across Birmingham

If you’re looking to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Birmingham, be sure to check out our local restaurants that offer festive dishes and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for the occasion.

Check out these nine restaurants to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Birmingham.

3. Chinese New Year Celebration | Huntsville

A short drive away from Birmingham, you can celebrate with this event hosted by the Huntsville Chinese Association. This large community celebration features a Chinese-Western fusion dinner, free family photos and sixteen traditional and contemporary performances showcasing music, dance and martial arts. Advance registration is required for entry.

• When: Sunday, Feb. 15 | 4:30–9:30PM
• Where: 4816 Holmes Ave NW, Huntsville, AL 35805
• More info

4. Lunar New Year Kite Festival | Montgomery

Hosted by ALIEEP, this multicultural celebration welcomes the Lunar New Year with cultural games, global food vendors, art activities and a community kite competition with prizes. Attendees can bring their own kites and participate while enjoying snacks and performances from local organizations.

• When: Friday, Feb. 21 | 1–4PM
• Where: 1 Festival Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117
• More Info

5. Spring Lantern Festival | Gadsden

This limited-time outdoor experience transforms Noccalula Falls Park into a glowing display of illuminated lantern installations, live acrobatic performances and local food vendors. The seasonal lantern showcase aligns with Lunar New Year traditions and offers a family-friendly evening experience.

• When: Feb. 13 – April 5, 2026 | 5–9PM
• Where: Noccalula Falls Park, 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden
• More info

How will you be celebrating the Year of the Horse?  Let us know by tagging The Bama Buzz on Instagram, Facebook + LinkedIn!