Lunar New Year 2023 celebrations in San Diego

Oh, it’s festival season alright.

Lion dancers at the San Diego Tet Festival celebrate the Vietnamese Lunar New Year.

The San Diego Tết Festival is Friday, Jan. 27-Sunday, Jan. 29.

The Lunar New Year is upon us. As revelers celebrate the Year of the Rabbit Sunday, Jan. 22, 2023-Thursday, Feb. 9, 2024 — or the Year of the Cat, depending on cultural traditions — several free, local festivals will be hoppin’ (and the cat’s meow).

🏮 This Saturday and Sunday, the 2023 SD Lunar New Year Festival at Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park in City Heights will showcase traditional performances and cultural exhibitions.

🏮 Also this Sunday, the Chinese New Year Festival at the House of China at Balboa Park will feature Chinese food, lion dances, and crafts.

A past Chinese New Year celebration at the House of China in Balboa Park

A past Chinese New Year celebration at the House of China in Balboa Park.

Photo via @sotnwaffle

🏮 On Friday, Jan. 27-Sunday, Jan. 29, the San Diego Tết Festival at Mira Mesa Community Park will celebrate the Vietnamese tradition (and Year of the Cat) with live entertainment, vendors, and a pageant.

🏮 On Saturday, Jan. 28, 12-4 p.m., head to the San Diego Central Library for the Korean American Heritage & Lunar New Year Celebration and enjoy themed crafts, dance performances, and other activities.

🏮 On Saturday, Feb. 4, and Sunday, Feb. 5, the 40th annual San Diego Chinese New Year Fair will return to J Street and Third Avenue in downtown San Diego with entertainment, art, and food vendors.

More from SDtoday
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
Dining in San Diego is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
More than 60 local museums + attractions will offer free admission for kids age 12 and under from Wednesday, Oct. 1 to Friday, Oct. 31.
No cash? No problem. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in San Diego, these are some of the best offerings that won’t break the bank.
This list of volunteer opportunities in America’s Finest City includes everything from helping the hungry to cleaning up local beaches.
The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center will serve as Cygnet Theatre’s new home.
We’re here to make your flying process plane and simple.
Whew, 2025 is shaping up to be an eventful year in America’s Finest City.
Reach your local community with our help.
Don’t just pick a spot with pancakes and eggs — pick the spot that’s perfect for your gathering with this guide that includes menu recommendations, brunch categories, and beyond.