Lunar new year 2025 austin

Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a significant cultural celebration observed by many Asian communities worldwide. In 2025, the Lunar New Year falls on Wednesday, January 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom and transformation in the Chinese zodiac. Austin, Texas, with its vibrant and diverse community, hosts a variety of events to honor this festive occasion.

Lunar New Year Festival at The Paper + Craft Pantry

One of Austin’s most anticipated celebrations is the Lunar New Year Festival organized by The Paper + Craft Pantry. Scheduled for Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 1023 Springdale Road, this family-friendly event offers a rich cultural experience. Attendees can explore a pop-up market featuring over 30 Asian-owned small businesses, offering original art, food, and books. The festival also includes lion and dragon dance performances, interactive children’s activities, bilingual storytime, and face painting. A portion of the proceeds will support the Asian Family Support Services of Austin.

Culinary Celebrations

Austin’s culinary scene embraces the Lunar New Year with special events and menus:

• Oseyo x Lao’d Bar Collaboration: On Saturday, January 25, and Wednesday, January 29, Oseyo and Lao’d Bar are teaming up for a pop-up event featuring Korean and Laotian street-style dishes, tiki cocktails, and craft soju flights. Limited edition tote bags will also be available.
• WuChow’s Lunar New Year Party: Set for Sunday, January 26, WuChow’s celebration includes a lion dance performance, appetizers, and special cocktails. The event is free, with a suggested donation benefiting New Hope Animal Rescue. Special menu items, including Peking duck and snapper, will be available until February 2.
• Lunar New Year Cooking Class: On Wednesday, January 29, Central Market Cooking School offers a class focusing on dishes symbolizing prosperity and longevity, such as Northern-style dumplings and braised fish. Participants aged 21 and over can enjoy a glass of wine with their meal.
• RedFarm’s Special Menu: From January 29 to February 9, RedFarm features dishes symbolizing longevity and prosperity, including truffle chicken dumplings and lobster with wide rice noodles. Reservations are recommended.

Community Activities and Performances

Beyond culinary events, Austin offers various activities to celebrate the Lunar New Year:

• Lunar New Year Run: Taking place on Saturday, February 1, this annual event features 5K, 10K, and half-marathon routes. Participants receive a t-shirt, medal, and mini lanterns to celebrate at the finish line.
• Lunar New Year Carnival at Xiang Yun Temple: On Sunday, February 2, the North Austin Buddhist temple hosts a carnival with traditional lion dances, music, a pop-up market, and vegetarian food for sale. The event is free, with food vouchers available for purchase.
• UMLAUF After Dark: Lunar New Year: Scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden offers an evening of art, culture, and specialty cocktails, featuring live gong meditation, music, and glow-in-the-dark dragon and lion dances.
• Austin Public Library Events: Various branches of the Austin Public Library are hosting free, family-friendly Lunar New Year events throughout late January and early February. Activities include Chinese Yo-Yo shows, lion and dragon performances, and craft sessions where children can create their own paper snakes.
• Meanwhile Brewing Co. Celebration: On Saturday, February 15, Meanwhile Brewing Co. is hosting a Lunar New Year celebration featuring a market with local Asian-American vendors, music from DJ Mike Swing, and a special beer collaboration. The event is free to attend.

Embracing Cultural Diversity

Austin’s array of Lunar New Year events reflects the city’s commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement. These celebrations offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in rich traditions, enjoy diverse culinary experiences, and participate in activities that honor the Lunar New Year.

Whether you’re interested in traditional performances, culinary delights, or community gatherings, Austin’s 2025 Lunar New Year celebrations provide a variety of ways to welcome the Year of the Snake with joy and cultural appreciation.