Happy Lunar New Year! This two-week celebration begins today, and is observed by Asian communities around the world. The holiday marks the first new moon of the lunar calendar, and is commemorated by one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. 2025 is the Year of the Snake, and here in Houston, there’s no shortage of festivals, cultural performances, and other ways to celebrate.
Saturday, Feb. 1 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Free entry ($12 for ticketed performances)
Learn about Lunar New Year traditions, make your own snake puppet, try your luck with the Vietnamese game Bầu Cua Cá Cọp, and so much more! Traditional lion dances and other performances are also a part of this celebration, along with other crafts, activities, and food vendors. (Asia Society Texas is also hosting Lunar New Year festivities at The Galleria Feb. 1 - 9.)
Saturday, Feb. 1 | 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. | Free
Now in its 29th year, this televised festival includes live performances and other cultural celebrations.
Saturday, Feb. 1 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Free
Don’t miss this annual festival in Asiatown, with performances that range from traditional lion and dragon dances to martial arts, fashion shows, and live orchestral music. Plus, there’s a live snake exhibit, history exhibit, hands-on workshops, and delicious food.
Saturday, Feb. 1 | Noon - 6 p.m. | Free
Ring in Lunar New Year with Lion and Dragon dances, a live DJ, cultural workshops, and food and shopping at a RISE market with more than 30 vendors. Plus, the first 200 arrivals will receive red envelopes with gift vouchers for downtown businesses.
Saturday, Feb. 1 - Sunday, Feb. 2 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | $34.95
Watch traditional lion dances, take part in cultural activities, and discover fun facts about the moon. There will also be pop-up science labs and, on Saturday, astronaut presentations.
Saturday, Feb. 2 | 4 - 7 p.m. | Free
Enjoy Han Narea’s traditional Korean Dance demonstrations, Lee’s Golden Dragon Lion Dance, and other performances. Food trucks will also be on site. And don’t miss your last chance to skate on Green Mountain Energy Ice this winter!
Friday, Feb. 7 - Sunday, Feb. 9 | Times Vary | $40
This family-friendly one-act opera is a retelling of The Jade Emperor and the Great Race — a fable about the origins of the Chinese zodiac calendar. This co-production between Asia Society Texas and the Houston Grand Opera will be preceded by shadow puppets, calligraphy demonstrations, and other activities.
Saturday, Feb. 16 | 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Free
Head down to Pearland for an afternoon of traditional music and dance performances, face painting, Tai chi, a photo booth, and much more. In between events, stop by the Food Court for a bite, or do some shopping at the Market.
We recently talked with Erica Cheng, food reporter at Chron.com, about some of the best eats and events to ring in the Year of the Snake. Still hungry? Check out these culinary celebrations.
