The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is inviting the Bay Area to celebrate a major milestone: the 25th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration.
One of OMCA’s most beloved traditions, this full-day, family-friendly festival on Saturday, February 21st, honors the holiday and uplifts Asian American and Pacific Islander communities across the region through vibrant performances, hands-on activities, storytelling, and food.
(Christine Cueto)
Now in its 25th year, OMCA’s Lunar New Year Celebration has become a space for connection, cultural exchange, and shared joy. This anniversary edition welcomes visitors to reflect on the traditions that have shaped the celebration over the past quarter-century, while embracing the energy and renewal symbolized by the Year of the Fire Horse. The festival begins at 11am, with performances and activities across OMCA’s seven-acre campus starting at noon.
The day opens with a traditional lucky lion dance, ushering in the New Year and chasing away evil spirits. It will be followed throughout the afternoon by performances representing Korean, Pilipino, Vietnamese, and Chinese heritage, including dynamic drumming and dance by Hansamo, kulintang music and Pilipino dance by KULARTS, and a high-energy lion and dragon dance by UC Berkeley’s Vietnamese Student Association.
Families and visitors of all ages can take part in hands-on activities such as horse puppet-making, red envelope decorating, K-pop dance lessons, a collective wishing tree, and a self-guided Lunar New Year zodiac animal quest throughout OMCA’s galleries.
(Christine Cueto)
Storytimes with author Benson Shum and the Oakland Public Library will invite deeper engagement with Lunar New Year traditions through books and music, while Oakland-based musical artist seiji oda will present a special set featuring meditative deep listening paired with movement and breathing exercises for all ages.
And be sure to bring your appetite: Beloved Bay Area AAPI chefs and food vendors will offer festive bites throughout the day, alongside offerings from OMCA’s own Town Fare by chef Michele McQueen.
Tickets to the 25th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration are $10 for general admission (free for members) and include access to OMCA’s galleries and special exhibitions.
// 1000 Oak St. (Oakland); more info at museumca.org
