Ring in the Year of the Horse at the San Diego Chinese New Year Fair

The San Diego Chinese New Year Fair is back, taking over Downtown San Diego for another weekend of cultural celebration. Now in its 43rd year, this beloved event – hosted by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association – keeps getting better.

Whether you’re a longtime regular or showing up for the first time, it’s the kind of gathering that reminds us why San Diego’s community is something special.

San Diego Chinese New Year Fair

A Celebration Rooted in Tradition

From the moment you step in, the energy is infectious. Lion dances, martial arts performances, and live music set the tone, while the food and family-friendly activities keep everyone entertained from start to finish.

It’s a full sensory experience that blends centuries of Chinese cultural tradition with the warmth of a community coming together to share in something meaningful.

What the Year of the Horse Means for the Year Ahead

In Chinese mythology, the horse is a symbol of energy, freedom, and forward momentum. Associated with ambition and an adventurous spirit, it represents a year of action – one that rewards those who are bold enough to chase what they want.

It’s an energizing sign to welcome in, and there’s no better way to kick off the Year of the Horse than surrounded by community, culture, and celebration.

Free, Open to All, and Worth the Trip Downtown

One of the best things about this event is that it’s completely free for all ages, making it easy to bring the whole crew along. There’s genuinely something for everyone here, from the little ones fascinated by the lion dance to the adults exploring the food stalls.

It’s a weekend well spent in the heart of the city.

See you there!

Grab your friends and family and head Downtown – the 43rd Annual San Diego Chinese New Year Fair is the perfect way to celebrate the season together.

📆 Saturday, February 28 – Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 10 AM – 5 PM
📍 428 3rd Avenue, San Diego
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Event
Event Details
  • Start Date
    February 28, 2026 10:00 am
  • End Date
    March 1, 2026 5:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • Gaslamp Quarter
  • Address
    428 3rd Avenue, San Diego
  • More Info
Event Map
The Latest
things to do in san diego this weekend
Check out this week’s Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend and make your plans! Catch Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen at the San Diego...
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Whiskey & Wine Party
Savor the Whiskey & Wine Estancia La Jolla experience with delicious food, exceptional drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere this fall.
top concerts in san diego this week
Here are the top concerts in San Diego this week! Whether you’re catching Benson Boone’s Wanted Man Tour, the country powerhouse pairing of Luke Bryan...
KPBS San Diego Book Festival at the University of San Diego
The second annual KPBS San Diego Book Festival, presented by the University of San Diego, is back, and it’s shaping up to be a full...
Soft Power exhibition at Oceanside Museum of Art
Oceanside Museum of Art is hosting the 2026 San Diego Art Prize exhibition for the first time ever, and this one’s a must-see. Soft Power:...
San Diego Food + Wine Festival's 22nd annual celebration
The San Diego Food + Wine Festival is turning 22, and it’s using the occasion to shake things up in a big way. SDFW returns...
Event Details
  • Start Date
    February 28, 2026 10:00 am
  • End Date
    March 1, 2026 5:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • Gaslamp Quarter
  • Address
    428 3rd Avenue, San Diego
  • More Info
Upcoming Events
MANIA The ABBA Tribute bringing the magic of ABBA to life at The Magnolia
February 10, 2027
7:30 pm
  • The Magnolia
If you’ve ever wanted to relive the magic of ABBA live on stage, MANIA: The ABBA Tribute is as close as it gets. The world’s...
November 1, 2026
12:00 pm
  • San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art is throwing a taco party in its sculpture garden, and honestly, it’s one of the most fun things on...
Bird's Eye View of Mission Bayfest
October 16, 2026
3:00 pm
  • Mariners Point
Mission Bayfest is heading back to the waterfront this fall, bringing three days of reggae, rock, and SoCal vibes to Mariner’s Point Park along the...
La Mesa Oktoberfest
October 2, 2026
4:00 pm
  • La Mesa Village
Join the fun at La Mesa Oktoberfest! Enjoy live entertainment, games, and great food in San Diego's biggest German celebration.
Shark Snorkeling Birch Aquarium
September 30, 2026
8:00 am
  • Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Get ready for shark snorkels at Birch Aquarium and enjoy a memorable snorkeling adventure with docile Leopard Sharks.
Event Search: