Lunar New Year

In 2026, Lunar New Year falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. From the end of 2025, there are 45 days remaining until the celebrations begin. While the traditional festival can span up to 16 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival on March 3, the primary festivities in the United Kingdom are usually concentrated on the main day itself or the closest weekends to allow the public to participate in community events.

No, Lunar New Year is not a public bank holiday in the United Kingdom. Businesses, government offices, schools, and public transport systems operate according to their normal schedules. However, it is a significant cultural observance, and some educational institutions or businesses with strong ties to East and Southeast Asian communities may allow for a day or two of leave for those celebrating. Most public celebrations, such as parades in London, are scheduled for weekends to accommodate the working public.

Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a tradition with ancient roots in Chinese history. It marks the start of a new year on the lunar calendar and was historically a time to pray to gods and ancestors for a good harvest. Many customs stem from the myth of the Nian, a beast that was warded off using the colour red and loud noises. Today, it is a time for family reunions, welcoming prosperity, and honoring heritage. The year 2026 is the Year of the Horse, which traditionally symbolises energy, strength, and travel.

Celebrations in the UK are vibrant and community-driven, with the largest events taking place in London's Chinatown and Trafalgar Square. You can expect to see grand parades featuring dragon and lion dances, live music, and cultural exhibitions. Families gather for traditional reunion meals and exchange red envelopes, known as 'hongbao', containing money for good luck. The streets are decorated with bright red lanterns, and many cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Edinburgh host their own local festivities, transforming city centres into hubs of Asian culture and food.

Food plays a central role in the celebrations, with specific dishes chosen for their symbolic meanings. Dumplings are a staple as they resemble ancient currency, representing wealth, while fish is served to signify abundance and a surplus for the coming year. Other customs include cleaning the home to sweep away bad luck, decorating windows with red paper-cuts, and setting off firecrackers in designated areas to drive away evil spirits. The exchange of red envelopes is particularly popular among children and young adults as a gesture of blessing from their elders.

London hosts one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia, centered around Soho and Trafalgar Square. Visitors should head to Chinatown for the most immersive atmosphere. Beyond the capital, Manchester and Liverpool boast historic Chinatowns that offer spectacular parades and traditional markets. Edinburgh also hosts various cultural events and performances. These locations offer a mix of street food stalls, craft workshops, and stage performances, making them excellent spots to experience the multicultural fusion of the UK's East Asian communities.

Public celebrations are generally free and family-friendly, but they can become extremely crowded, especially in London. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parades. As the weather in mid-February is typically cool, with temperatures between 5-10°C, and often damp, visitors should dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes. While photography of public performances is encouraged, it is polite to ask before taking close-up photos of families during their private celebrations. Always check for food allergens at street stalls, as many traditional snacks contain nuts or shellfish.

The Year of the Horse in 2026 brings a specific theme to the decorations and performances. In Chinese zodiac tradition, the Horse is associated with speed, persistence, and exploration. You will likely see these themes reflected in the artwork, zodiac displays, and themed merchandise available at markets. Many community speeches and cultural exhibitions will focus on the 'energetic' spirit of the Horse, often linking it to themes of travel and progress within the UK's diverse multicultural landscape.