Boston Lunar New Year 2024: Events, Celebrations & Year of the Horse

Lunar New Year Celebrations Usher in Year of the Horse in Boston

Boston is embracing the Lunar New Year with a series of events kicking off this week and continuing through early March, marking the beginning of the Year of the Horse. Celebrations began Sunday at Boston City Hall with vibrant dragon and lion dances, music, and performances, and will continue with a diverse range of cultural activities across the city.

This year’s celebration season officially begins on February 17, and represents the third official city-wide recognition of the holiday since 2023. Organizers emphasized the events aim to highlight the diversity of the Boston community through artistic showcases and traditional performances, including Chinese opera and traditional dances.

The festivities continue Monday with the final day of the Chinatown Main Street’s annual New Year Flower Popup Market. From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the China Trade Center, attendees can find fresh flowers, decorations, traditional red envelopes, and gifts.

On Thursday, February 19, the Museum of Fine Arts will host an evening of Lunar New Year activities, offering pay-what-you-wish admission with a $5 minimum. The museum encourages visitors to explore Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese art within its collection, alongside art workshops, demonstrations, talks, and performances beginning at 5 p.m..

Further celebrations are planned for February 21 at Copley Place, where a Lunar New Year celebration will feature a traditional lion dance performance by the Wah Lum Kung Fu and Tai Chi Academy at 2 p.m..

The Lunar New Year Lion Dance Parade will take place on March 1, starting at Phillips Square at 10 a.m.. Following the parade, the Chinese New Year Cultural Village will be open in the China Trade Center from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m..

Chinatown Main Street invites attendees to participate in events filled with lion dancing, performances, music, arts and crafts, gifts, calligraphy, and more, aiming to usher in a prosperous new year.

The Pao Arts Center will also host its annual Lunar New Year celebration on March 1, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring art and interactive workshops for all ages.