The Lunar New Year — also called the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival — is one of the most widely celebrated holidays across Asian cultures, marking the start of a new lunar calendar year with traditions that symbolize luck, renewal and prosperity. While celebrations in Montgomery County can vary from year to year, there are recurring places and ways local residents and visitors can take part in festivities.
- Westfield Montgomery Mall (Bethesda)
Westfield Montgomery Mall has become a popular local venue for Lunar New Year festivities, featuring dragon and lion dance performances, cultural exhibits, traditional music, family‑friendly arts and crafts, and community activities in partnership with the Chinese Culture and Community Service Center (CCACC). Events typically take place in January and February and include opportunities to learn about customs like lantern riddles and calligraphy.
Why go: Live performances, interactive cultural displays, and fun for kids and adults alike.
- City of Rockville’s Lunar New Year Celebration
Each year, the City of Rockville hosts a free Lunar New Year celebration that highlights the diversity of Asian cultures in the region. The event usually includes multicultural performances, interactive displays, children’s crafts, and food boxes, and serves as a community gathering to learn about the traditions behind the holiday.
Why go: A long‑running local tradition with performances and activities for all ages, celebrating inclusion and cultural heritage.
- Lunar New Year at Local Libraries
Montgomery County Public Libraries periodically host Lunar New Year programs — such as lion dances, storytelling, shadow puppets, Chinese yo‑yo demonstrations, and zodiac sign activities — especially at branches like the Germantown and Wheaton libraries.
Why go: Great for families or anyone looking to learn about holiday traditions in a community setting.
- Local Store and Community Celebrations
Community spots sometimes hold themed celebrations open to the public, such as grocery store events with lion dance performances, music, sampling and giveaways that highlight cultural foods and traditions.
Why go: A more casual, accessible way to enjoy festive traditions and local culture.
- Explore Cultural Events Beyond the County
While Montgomery County hosts many celebrations, neighboring cities also offer Lunar New Year events — for example, Baltimore’s Festival at the Walters Art Museum includes art‑making, traditional performances, food and community activities.
Why go: For broader cultural experiences and regional celebrations that enrich your understanding of Lunar New Year traditions.
Ways to Celebrate Year‑Round
Even outside scheduled events, you can celebrate the Lunar New Year and learn about its traditions in Montgomery County by:
Supporting local Asian restaurants, bakeries, and markets offering festive foods and seasonal specialties.
Visiting cultural exhibits or museum displays related to East and Southeast Asian art and history.
Learning about zodiac years and traditions — like giving red envelopes, decorating with lanterns and symbolizing good fortune — with family and friends.
Understanding the Lunar New Year Tradition
The Lunar New Year follows the lunisolar calendar, and the date changes each year based on the second new moon after the winter solstice. The celebration typically lasts about 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival — a time for family reunions, reflection and community gatherings.
Different cultures mark the Lunar New Year in unique ways, but many share common themes of renewal, luck and gratitude. Whether through parades, live performances, cultural workshops or seasonal cuisine, Montgomery County offers diverse ways for residents and visitors to participate in this meaningful festival.
