Join us in Mission Plaza on Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. for a family-friendly Lunar New Year Celebration that brings neighbors together to honor history, share traditions, and enjoy the moment.  

Volunteers Needed

We're looking for enthusiastic, positive, and reliable volunteers to help make Lunar New Year a success. Shifts available before, during and after the event. Sign up by February 27! Respond Now

✨ What to expect:

• Live performances by the Cal Poly Lion Dance Team and a special interactive performance by violinist Rose Crelli

• Local food vendors

• Local community booths

• Art, music, and activities for all ages

• A welcoming, come-as-you-are vibe

🌙 Why it matters:
Lunar New Year honors the deep cultural roots of Asian communities while celebrating the present we share. The Year of the Horse symbolizes energy, optimism, and moving forward, reflecting our hope for a connected, inclusive future.

💛 Come for an event. Stay for the experience.
Bring your family. Invite friends. Slow down, be present, and celebrate the richness that makes San Luis Obispo such a vibrant, welcoming community. Throughout the evening, enjoy the food, vendors, and activities in both Mission Plaza and on Higuera Street with the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market.

In addition, please be sure to visit our restaurants, shops & theater on Palm Street in SLO’s Chinatown Historic District - where our community has gathered for Lunar New Year celebrations for generations. The Ah Louis Store, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Mee Heng Low Noodle House, and the Palm Theatre will be open and look forward to welcoming you.

All are welcome. All belong.

The City’s Lunar New Year Celebration is a family-friendly, community-centered event that honors our shared history while creating space for joy, connection, and cultural appreciation. It is an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the richness that makes San Luis Obispo such a vibrant and welcoming community. This is a moment to slow down, be present, and share in something meaningful as neighbors and friends, whose history and legacy continue to shape our City and this celebration.

This event is brought to you by the City's Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in coordination with the City's Office of Economic Development and Tourism. 

Tentative Schedule of Events

Food vendors and activities at the booths available throughout the evening.

• 6:00pm to 6:30pm (Mission Plaza Stage): GenKey Sound Collective performance
• 6:30pm (Mission Plaza Stage): 
  • Welcome Remarks by Vice Mayor Emily Francis
  • Happy New Year Greeting by Children of the Central Coast Chinese Association
  • Remarks by The History Center
• 6:50pm (Adobe Stage): Vietnamese Đàn tranh and Ceremonial Tea
• 7:10pm (Adobe Stage): Vietnamese Fan Dance
• 7:15pm (Adobe to Mission Plaza Stage): Cal Poly Lion Dance Team Performance
• 7:35pm-8:35pm (Mission Plaza Stage): Electronic violin performance by Rose Crelli who will play music and share her story

Why is the event at Mission Plaza this year?

This year’s Lunar New Year celebration will take place at Mission Plaza to support the continued growth of the event, expanded programming, and accessibility needs. Palm Street in SLO’s Chinatown Historic District has long been the heart of Lunar New Year celebrations in our community, and that cultural legacy remains deeply important. Mission Plaza, just down the street, is designed for large community gatherings and allows us to create a space that is welcoming, accessible, and secure for everyone.

Looking ahead, the City will continue to explore opportunities for including Palm Street and our Historic Chinatown District in future celebrations.