Lunar New Year, sometimes known as Chinese New Year, brings a buzz to Perth like no other, filling the city up with colour, culture and celebration! Starting on 17 February 2026, Lunar New Year is celebrated across many Asian cultures and marks a time of fresh beginnings, togetherness and joy. The festivities stretch across 15 days, transforming the city with cultural performances, pop-up markets and celebrations – all best experienced when you’re staying right in the heart of the action.
In 2026, the Year of the Horse gallops in with energy and excitement, setting the tone for a lively season of celebration. Those born in the Year of the Horse (2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966) are said to be confident, responsible, and free-spirited.
From Northbridge to Elizabeth Quay, here’s where to experience the best Lunar & Chinese New Year events in Perth in 2026.
Perth Festival ‘Under The Red Lanterns | East Perth Power Station
Saturday 14 February | From 4pm
Celebrate Lunar New Year under the glow of the red lanterns with this FREE family-friendly event at Casa Musica with lion dancers, live music and more. Wear red – a colour symbolizing luck, happiness and prosperity – and join in an unforgettable night of music, tradition and celebration.
Under The Red Lanterns brings together Perth’s largest Southeast Asian line-up for a night that honours tradition while celebrating contemporary talent. Enjoy acts from Linh & William, Flying Kik, Kurt Carrera, and DJ Lima Brightlove, as well as a traditional performance from the Yaolin Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association.
Terracotta Warriors Closing Festival | WA Museum Boola Bardip
Tuesday 17 – Friday 2- February | 5pm-9pm
Visit the WA Museum Boola Bardip and celebrate the Lunar New Year with the closing week of their most successful exhibition yet – Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor. From 5pm each night, enjoy the FREE closing festival celebration outside the main entrance featuring different performances, live music, DJ’s, a photo booth and more. Grab yourself a refreshing drink or a bite to eat from one of the various food trucks and view the Lanterns of Terracotta Warriors, before making the most of the extended exhibition entry with your last chance to see Emperor Qin Shihuan’s Terracotta Warriors as well as over 225 ancient artefacts and cultural treasures before they leave Perth (tickets required for exhibition entry, last entry 7:30pm).
Lunar New Year Markets @ The Quay | Elizabeth Quay
Saturday 21 February | 3pm-8pm
Celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse with vibrant markets, delicious food, and traditional performances at the Lunar New Year Markets @ The Quay. Explore the artisan market stalls offering delicious street eats to unique handmade treasures, before being captivated by traditional lion dancing and drum performances from 6:45pm. Add your hopes for the year ahead to the Lunar New Year Wishing Tree, and keep an eye out for fortune cookie giveaways for messages of prosperity and gift cards!
Can’t make it to the markets? Wander down to Elizabeth Quay at 6:45pm any night from Sunday 17 – Sunday 22 February to catch the live lion and dragon performances every evening.
Lunar New Year in the Square | Yagan Square
Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 February | 4:30pm-6:30pm
The Yagan Square precinct is coming to life with colourful lanterns, festive decorations and spectacular cultural performances. Kicking off the celebrations for the Year of the Horse at 4:30pm is a traditional lion dance, followed by a high-energy K-Pop performance by the Diversity Perth Dance Studio.
Kick back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal or drink at one of Yagan Squares many bars and restaurants while you enjoy this celebration of culture, community, and creativity.
Perth Chinese New Year Fair | Northbridge
Sunday 22 February | 12pm-9pm
The annual Chinese New Year Fair, presented by the Chung Wah Association, is arguably one of Perth’s biggest CNY events – and is not one to be missed! Taking place along James Street and Lake Street in Northbridge, the fair offers a rich and immersive experience filled with culture, colour and entertainment.
Visitors can make the most of multicultural food stalls, cultural arts & craft workshops, competitions, community stalls, games and more, as well as traditional lion and dragon dances and an exciting program of live performances.
Where to stay for Lunar New Year in Perth
With Lunar New Year celebrations spread across the Perth CBD from Northbridge to Elizabeth Quay, staying in the heart of the city makes it easy to experience it all without worrying about transport, parking, or missing a moment. From night markets and cultural performances to family-friendly events and late-night festivities, everything is just a short walk or ride away from Holiday Inn Perth City Centre.
Start the Year of the Horse off right with a city stay that puts you right at the heart of all the action. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, weekend staycation, or attending one of the many Lunar New Year events, staying in the Perth CBD means more time celebrating and less time travelling.
Book your stay at Holiday Inn Perth City Centre and enjoy the best of Perth’s Lunar New Year events right at your doorstep.
