Lunar New Year returns on Tuesday 17 February 2026, welcoming the Year of the Horse. London hosts the largest celebrations outside Asia, with vibrant events across the West End and beyond. Here’s where to experience the best of it.
Where to celebrate Lunar new year in London
1. Chinatown London – The Main Event
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Chinatown, centred around Gerrard Street and Leicester Square, is the heart of London’s Lunar New Year celebrations. Expect:
- The iconic dragon and lion dance parade
- Stage performances in Trafalgar Square
- Traditional music and cultural showcases
- Street food stalls and special menus
The official parade typically runs through the West End, culminating in performances at Trafalgar Square and Shaftesbury Avenue.
Official site: https://chinatown.co.uk
Visit London event listings: https://www.visitlondon.com
Arrive early – crowds regularly exceed hundreds of thousands throughout the day.
2. Trafalgar Square Performances
Trafalgar Square hosts free cultural performances including:
- Traditional Chinese dance
- Martial arts demonstrations
- Contemporary Asian artists
- Family-friendly workshops
It’s one of the best spots for photography and soaking up the atmosphere.
3. Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands often runs family-friendly Lunar New Year workshops exploring Chinese heritage, crafts and storytelling.
Website: https://www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands
This is ideal if you prefer a quieter, educational experience away from central crowds.
4. Royal China & Authentic Dining Spots
If you’d rather celebrate around the table, London has excellent options:
- Royal China (Baker Street) – Known for dim sum
- Hakkasan (Hanway Place) – Michelin-starred Cantonese
- Four Seasons (Gerrard Street) – Famous roast duck
- Din Tai Fung (Covent Garden) – Soup dumplings
Booking well in advance is essential during Lunar New Year week.
5. Celebrate at Essential Living
If you’re a resident at Essential Living, you don’t even need to leave home to join the festivities.
Across our buildings, we’ll be:
- Handing out fortune cookies
- Hosting a special Lunar New Year happy hour
- Creating space for neighbours to come together
Our communities are designed for connection, and celebrations like these make it easy to meet fellow residents and mark cultural moments in style.
If you’re searching for a home that offers more than just an apartment, explore our current availability here:
https://www.essentialliving.co.uk/search/
6. Southbank Centre & Cultural Events
The Southbank Centre regularly programmes Lunar New Year-inspired performances and East Asian arts events.
Website: https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Check listings closer to February for 2026 confirmations.
Planning Tips for Lunar New Year 2026
- Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
- Main London parade: Usually the first Sunday after the New Year date
- Arrive early for central events
- Book restaurants at least 2–3 weeks ahead
- Use public transport (Charing Cross, Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus)
Celebrate Community in London
Lunar New Year is about renewal, connection and celebration. Whether you’re watching the dragon dance in Chinatown or enjoying fortune cookies and happy hour in your Essential Living building, London offers unforgettable ways to welcome the Year of the Horse.
Discover community-led living at Essential Living and explore available apartments here:
https://www.essentialliving.co.uk/search/
For businesses looking for flexible workspace solutions during London’s busy event seasons, visit https://homequarters.co.uk
Lunar New Year London 2026 FAQs
When is Lunar New Year in 2026?
Lunar New Year falls on Tuesday 17 February 2026, marking the Year of the Horse.
Where is the main Lunar New Year parade in London?
The largest celebrations take place in Chinatown, Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square in the West End.
Is Lunar New Year in London free?
Yes, the main parade and Trafalgar Square performances are free to attend.
What restaurants are good for Lunar New Year in London?
Royal China, Hakkasan, Four Seasons (Gerrard Street) and Din Tai Fung are popular choices for celebratory dining.
Do Essential Living residents celebrate Lunar New Year?
Yes. Essential Living buildings will be handing out fortune cookies and hosting a special happy hour for residents.
