What’s On in London
Lunar New Year is about more than a date in the calendar.
It’s about family, food, tradition, and spending time with people who matter.
When you’re studying in London, celebrating may look a little different from home. That doesn’t make it any less meaningful. London is one of the best places to experience Lunar New Year in its own way.
Lunar New Year in London
Chinese New Year falls on Tuesday 17th February, and London marks the occasion on a big scale.
Celebrations take place across Chinatown, Trafalgar Square and the West End, with streets filled with colour, music, lion and dragon dances, and food stalls serving traditional dishes linked to luck, longevity and prosperity.
It’s one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside Asia. Even a short visit can feel special. A walk through Chinatown, sharing noodles with friends, or stopping to watch a performance all count.
The Year of the Horse
2026 is the Year of the Horse.
The horse carries a rich range of meanings. It’s often linked to freedom and independence, energy and movement, hard work, and quiet ambition.
In Chinese culture, the horse is also seen as a lucky symbol. Admired for its strength, spirit and sociable nature. Because of this, Years of the Horse are often associated with progress, exploration and positive change, moving forward with confidence rather than rushing.
A celebration shared across cultures
Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is celebrated across many cultures and countries including China, Korea, Vietnam and beyond.
In a city like London, it’s a moment shared by communities across the city, as well as by many students who are celebrating away from home. In London, even a short walk through Chinatown during Lunar New Year feels incredible and truly being part the community.
You might hear people wishing each other Xin Nian Kuai Le in Mandarin or Sun Nin Faai Lok in Cantonese. You’ll also see plenty of red around the city, traditionally worn or bought to bring good luck for the year ahead.
Food, tradition and togetherness
Food plays a big role in Lunar New Year. Dumplings, noodles and shared meals are all about togetherness and good fortune. Why not try some of these ideas to celebrate the new year:
- Cooking familiar dishes with flatmates
- Sharing food and stories
- Talking about traditions and what Lunar New Year means to you
- Talk about traditions with your YourTRIBE team. We’d love to know what Lunar New Year looks like for you.
Lunar New Year at YourTRIBE
February at YourTRIBE is a month that celebrates love in all its forms. Friendship, culture, identity, self-care and community all have space.
At YourTRIBE, we create student spaces designed for connection, culture and everyday life in London. On 17th February, we’ll be marking Lunar New Year as part of our February events. It’s a chance to celebrate culture, share food, and spend time together.