
The much-anticipated Chinese Year of the Horse starts on February 17, 2026! Little Steps digs into what exactly we are celebrating and where the fun is happening this CNY in Hong Kong. There’s so much to do, from admiring the festive mall decorations as well as the spectacular lantern displays at Lee Tung Avenue, lion dances happening all across the city, fun workshops for the kids, Lunar New Year celebrations at Disneyland and Ocean Park, the amazing of the Chinese New Year Parade in TST, flower markets, dazzling fireworks and so much more. It’s all here in our Chinese New Year Events Guide for a memorable Year Of The Horse in Hong Kong!
This page is constantly updated with new events and happenings, so check back for more!
More Chinese New Year Guides For Families In 2026
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with a memorable family adventure on board aqualuna's Chinese New Year Cruise, specially designed for children aged 2–11. This 75-minute nautical journey departs from Tsim Sha Tsui Pier 1 or Central Pier 9, inviting young explorers to take part in festive hands-on activities like crafting fai chun blessings and designing Chinese New Year hanging decorations to welcome good fortune for the year ahead.
Each ticket includes a complimentary soft drink, and in the event of rain, all activities are comfortably moved indoors to the cabin area. A fun, creative and meaningful way to celebrate Chinese New Year on the water with the whole family.
aqualuna, +852 2116 8821, aqualuna@aqua.com.hk, https://aqualuna.asiapay.com/
Head to the AIA Carnival at Central Harbourfront for a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration full of family fun and festive energy! Running through the holiday season till March 1, 2026, this winter event lights up with special Chinese New Year touches in the spirit of the Year of the Horse.
Daily afternoon Lion Dance performances bring thrilling drumbeats, acrobatics, and waves of good luck—kids love watching the energetic moves up close. Meet the cheerful horse mascot wandering the grounds, handing out smiles and high-fives. Test your luck at game booths to win exclusive Chinese New Year edition Sesame Street plush toys, a big hit with little collectors.
The space sparkles with neon lights, traditional Chinese lanterns, and a custom carousel decked in bright CNY colors—ideal for family photos. Enjoy a variety of rides suited to all ages, from gentle spins for toddlers to exciting thrills for older kids. At the Henderson Land Community Arena, catch rotating cultural performances and hands-on workshops like choir showcases, dance pieces, art sessions, and origami—perfect for a lighter, seasonal taste of tradition.
With open stroller-friendly space, harbour views, and a welcoming mix of high-energy carnival vibes and cultural moments, it’s an easy, joyful outing for Hong Kong families.
Why Little Steps Loves It
AIA Carnival, Central Harbourfront Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central, Hong Kong, +852 7095 2692 (WhatsApp), info@gceg.asia, www.aiacarnival.com
According to an ancient legend, people were once tormented by a beast called a Nian (Year), a ferocious creature with an extremely large mouth capable of swallowing several people in a single bite. Relief from the Nian came only when an old man tricked the beast into disappearing. In reality, Chinese New Year festivities are more of a desire to celebrate the end of winter and the fertility and rebirth that come with the spring. Today, New Year is about family reunions and wishing everyone good fortune in the coming year.
Prior to New Year's Day, Chinese families decorate their living rooms with beautiful flowers, platters of oranges and tangerines, and a candy tray with different kinds of dried sweet fruit. There are also the traditional feasts! Whole fish, which represent togetherness and abundance, and a chicken, which represents prosperity, are prepared for family and friends. Also, note that a lot of restaurants and shops will be closed during the New Year, so call ahead.
Visiting the Victoria Park Flower Market over Chinese New Year is a must-do for families looking to attend a top market to experience and purchase all the lucky plants associated with the holiday. While the market can be crowded, it is a lot of fun. Give the kids a bit of cash to select their own lucky plant to bring back to their happy home. It’s a fun family outing for all. Flower markets will be held all across the city, but the one in Victoria Park is certainly the most popular. Click here for more information.
Dates: February 11 - 17, 2026
The spectacular Chinese New Year Night Parade is back and bigger than ever! Held on the first day of the Lunar New Year (February 17, 2026), the parade has become the pinnacle of the festive season in Hong Kong. This vibrant parade showcases dazzling floats and extraordinary performances by local and international groups, illuminating the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui. Before the main show, a lively street party sets the mood for an unforgettable beginning to the Year of the Horse. Click here for all you need to know!
The spectacular Chinese New Year fireworks are back on February 18, 2026! Check out all these vantage points across Hong Kong to get the best views, or make it a night to remember and add in a special dinner to boot. We've chosen the best restaurants with views of the harbor and exclusive Chinese New Year menus here.
Celebrate Chinese New Year with the whole family at Lee Tung Avenue in Hong Kong! From January 29 to March 15, 2026, Lee Tung Avenue is hosting the “Lanterns-Lit Year of the Snake” event, offering a magical experience for everyone. Enjoy the festive ambiance and stroll along the 200-meter tree-lined pedestrian walkway adorned with hundreds of vibrant red and goldfish-shaped lanterns as well as the magnificent eight-meter-long golden dragon installation, a beloved symbol of Chinese culture. And everyone is invited to decorate the dragon’s body with the guidance of the on-site art instructors! Click here for more info!
Celebrate Chinese New Year 2026 with Disney magic at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) as the Year of the Horse gallops in! From January 30 to March 1, 2026, HKDL’s “Magical Year After Year” celebration blends cherished traditions with enchanting Disney festivities, all while tying into the park’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. Immerse yourself in vibrant decorations, including a stunning Mickey-shaped red lantern featuring Bullseye from Toy Story, and enjoy heartwarming reunions with Disney friends dressed in festive outfits, such as Goofy as the God of Fortune and Duffy and Friends in seasonal attire. Kick off the year with exclusive goodies like the “Disney Chinese New Year Lucky Magic Bag,” featuring horse-themed plushies and entry into the “2026 Mickey’s Magic Draw,” where every participant wins prizes ranging from exclusive merchandise to luxurious hotel stays. Don’t miss the complimentary Disney-themed lai see (red envelopes) with chocolate gold coins and shopping perks, available on February 17, 2026, while supplies last! Guests can savor festive delicacies like Duffy and Friends sponge cakes, passion fruit mango soft-serve, and elaborate Chinese New Year menus at Crystal Lotus and Dragon Wind. Extend the celebrations with a stay at one of HKDL’s themed hotels, offering lion dance performances, cookie-making classes, balloon workshops, and magical in-room packages. Hong Kong residents can also enjoy the “Happier Together Advance Purchase Ticket Deal,” with 25% off 1-Day Tickets for two or more guests visiting between January 24 and May 3, 2026, saving up to HK$470 for two. From stunning decorations and festive treats to unforgettable Disney encounters, HKDL is the ultimate destination to welcome the Lunar New Year with joy, prosperity, and magic!
Book your tickets here now! Disneyland Hong Kong is open every day during the Chinese New Year.
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/
The Chinese New Year Raceday on February 19, 2026, is a highlight of Hong Kong’s festive calendar, attracting racing enthusiasts and families alike. Attendees can immerse themselves in the excitement of thrilling horse races while also enjoying vibrant lion dance performances, an electrifying variety show, and live music at the Sha Tin Racecourse, all designed to usher in a prosperous new year.
For visitors to Hong Kong, there’s an added bonus: free admission to the Public Enclosure (excluding fee-charging venues) at either Sha Tin or Happy Valley Racecourse is available by simply presenting a valid travel document upon entry. Otherwise, you can just get tickets at the door - but it can get very busy! Doors open 2 hours before the race, which starts at 11:30 am.
Chinese New Year Raceday, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, Hong Kong, https://www.hkjc.com/home/english/index.aspx
Get ready to witness some of the greatest footballers of our time at the Chinese New Year Cup 2025 on February 1, 2025. This star-studded friendly match will feature legends like Kaká, Rivaldo, Paul Scholes, Cafu, and David Silva as they take on a team of local football stars at the Hong Kong Stadium. This event marks the last opportunity to see these iconic players at this venue before the tournament moves to Kai Tak Sports Park. Don’t miss your chance to experience this thrilling celebration of football during the Lunar New Year festivities! Tickets are available here.
Chinese New Year Cup 2025, Hong Kong Stadium, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, https://www.facebook.com/cnycup2025
Get ready to celebrate the Year of the Horse at Ocean Park's Lunar Fiesta 2026, running from 17 February to 22 March 2026! This family-friendly event is packed with traditional Chinese New Year festivities, vibrant performances, joyful photo spots, and exciting experiences for all ages. Highlights include exhilarating lion and dragon dances, surprise visits from the God of Fortune, and the charming Whirl-a-Wish Panda Garden, where golden windmills and festive decorations radiate good luck. Indulge in festive dining, shop for adorable panda-themed souvenirs, and don’t miss Ocean Park’s stunning float at the 2026 Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade. For even more fun, explore the Park’s new Annual Membership tiers or grab discounted ticket packages to maximize your celebration! For all the highlights, click here.
Ocean Park, https://www.oceanpark.com.hk/en
Taking place at Lam Tsuen Wishing Square in Tai Po, this vibrant event runs from February 17 to March 3, 2026, offering a unique way to celebrate the Year of the Horse. This year, the festival features exciting new highlights, including the "Light and Hope" Float Parade on Lunar New Year’s Day (February 17, 2026), which will light up the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui with a fleet of inspiring floats crossing the harbour like meteors to welcome a bright new year.
At the main venue in Lam Tsuen, visitors can immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions and festive fun. Make wishes at the iconic Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees, take part in the enchanting Wishing Lanterns Lighting Ceremony, and enjoy cultural activities such as throwing wishing placards and sampling Hakka delicacies at the local food carnival. The festival also features a floats exhibition, live music and dance performances, a Spring Festival market, booth games, and delicious food stalls, creating an atmosphere brimming with joy and festivity.
Key Festival Information
How to Get There
For a hassle-free trip, take the MTR to Tai Wo Station and hop onto a free shuttle or taxi to Lam Tsuen Wishing Square. If you're taking a taxi, show the driver this Chinese name: 林村許願樹.
Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s most heartwarming traditions, enjoy family fun, and wish for a year filled with good fortune!
Stay tuned on their social media for all the updates!
Hong Kong Well-Wishing Festival, Lam Tsuen Wishing Square, 8 Heung Kung Sho Road, Lam Tsuen, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong
Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Kai Tak Sports Park’s first-ever Chinese New Year Celebration! From January 30 to February, enjoy festive outdoor and indoor markets, live performances, and dazzling parade floats. Highlights include the Chinese New Year Market at Dining Cove (Feb 10–16), themed pop-ups at Kai Tak Mall (Feb 1–early March), and eight stunning floats from the "Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade" (Feb 18–26). Don’t miss traditional dragon and lion dances on Feb 25, plus fun activities for the whole family!
Kick off the Year of the Horse with family-friendly festivities at LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Hong Kong! From now until March 15, 2026, the centre is transformed with vibrant festive decorations, offering an exciting lineup of creative activities for LEGO® fans of all ages. Discover the New Year-themed MINILAND®, adorned with colorful couplets and festive flowers, and take part in building challenges to unleash your imagination. Dress in your best New Year outfits, capture memorable photos, and craft traditional LEGO® creations like fortune firecrackers and a galloping horse canvas. Guests who share inventive New Year greetings featuring the character for "horse" or spend HK$300 or more in the gift shop can take home a limited-edition LEGO® fai chun. Don’t miss the Creative Academy workshops, where kids can learn new building techniques, join themed challenges, and meet the Master Model Builder Crew for an unforgettable Year of the Horse celebration!
LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre, Shop B131-133, B1, K11 MUSEA, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, https://www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/hong-kong/en/
Harbour City is the perfect destination for family-friendly fun this Chinese New Year, offering a range of exciting highlights for kids. The “Chinese New Year Interactive Zone” invites children to unleash their creativity with Kenneth Wong’s original character “Dreamy,” where they can decorate Fortune Wheel Colouring Sheets and hang wishes on a peach blossom tree to bring good luck. Youngsters can also enjoy the adorable Junior Lion Dance performance on February 15, where kids aged 6 to 12 showcase their newly learned lion dance skills. Families won’t want to miss meeting the God of Wealth on March 3, where they can take festive photos and receive blessings.
Harbour City, Ocean Terminal Forecourt and Atrium, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 3 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, https://www.harbourcity.com.hk/en/
Celebrate Chinese New Year with your family at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct’s enchanting ‘Whimsical Gallop,’ running from 5 February to 3 March 2026, and filled with art, performances, and interactive fun. Kids and families can personalize blessings at the ‘Splendid Blessings’ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth, where shoppers spending HK$300 or more can select auspicious messages, capture full-body photos, and receive printed and animated versions to share. Don’t miss the live performances, including tap and jazz shows by Step Out Studio dancers and Nate Wong’s Jazz Band on 14 and 21 February at 3:30pm, or the traditional eye-dotting ceremony and lion dance parade on 23 February at 1pm, spreading festive energy and luck throughout the mall. With vibrant installations like peach blossom-filled pavilions, whimsical mini horses, and a 3.5-metre-tall galloping horse symbolizing prosperity, the family-friendly celebration offers endless photo opportunities and joyful memories for all.
Beautiful festive Chinese New Year decorations now adorn major shopping malls across Hong Kong! Expect red lanterns, lion dances, kid-friendly workshops, dragon displays, bright colors, and blooming flowers all around creating cute photo opportunities for the family. Explore our guide to the best festive displays here!
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Chinese New Year Dining And Takeaways In Hong Kong 2025
Many excellent Hong Kong restaurants have prepared fantastic menus to celebrate Chinese New Year in style. Whether you wish to eat out or take in, check out our guide here:
It's the season to dress to impress for Chinese New Year events, school celebrations, family gatherings, and more. Little Steps has shopped the markets, designers, and boutiques to give you the scoop on where to buy the perfect outfits for your little ones.
Guide On Where To Buy Cheongsams + Chinese Dress, Click here
During Chinese New Year, there is also a tradition of offering lai see or ya sui qian (red packets filled with money) to bring good fortune and to ensure that kids and single people can begin the new year with some cash in their pockets. The envelopes often have Chinese characters that translate to “good fortune” or “good in business” printed on them and are sometimes accompanied by Chinese paper cuts.
Red Packets 101 (Do's & Don'ts), Click here
Chinese New Year is like Christmas in the West, a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family to enjoy some traditional food. Check out Little Steps' guide to know what you and your kids should try during the festive season!
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