Lunar New Year Traditions to Celebrate Around the World

"Once the moon has just about completed 12 full cycles of its phases, the Lunar New Year falls upon us. The first new moon of this next cycle-in mid-February for 2026-marks the beginning of spring according to the lunisolar calendar, which is certainly cause for celebration. For 15 days, about two billion people around the world will be taking part in all sorts of festivities-spiritual, cultural, and simply spectacular."

"While many locals like to spend the Spring Festival having intimate gatherings with family and friends, there is still plenty to do for visitors looking to join in on public celebrations. Temple visits, parades, street fairs, and fireworks shows are some of the most well-attended events. However, there are also lantern festivals, cultural demonstrations, flower markets, and so much more. Here are some of the best ways you can welcome the coming Lunar New Year."

"The new year brings new hope for prosperity and better fortunes in family, health, love, and money-and many like to start the year right with prayer. Beijing 's temples are one of the busiest places to be during the Lunar New Year, with crowds packing temples to pay their respects to Buddhist deities. However, for those who don't practice Buddhism, there are also temple fairs on the temple grounds or nearby."

The Lunar New Year begins with the first new moon of the lunisolar cycle, falling in mid-February for 2026, and ushers in a 15-day period of celebration. Roughly two billion people participate in spiritual, family, and public festivities across many cultures, notably Tết Nguyên Đán in Vietnam and Seollal in Korea. Common public events include temple visits, parades, street fairs, fireworks, lantern festivals, cultural demonstrations, and flower markets. Beijing draws large crowds at temples and temple fairs, with Ditan Park hosting the city's largest and oldest fair featuring local snacks, artisanal crafts, and regional folk performances.

Read at Conde Nast Traveler