Year of the Snake: Lunar New Year celebrations brighten up KC

Lunar New Year celebration at Cafe Cà Phê // Photo by Phon Wills

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and typically falls between January 21 and February 20. It is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in Asia. Centered around family reunions, feasts, and celebrating the arrival of a new year, celebrants approach the holiday with hopes for prosperity, happiness, and good health. This year, Lunar New Year falls on January 29 and we are celebrating the Year of the Snake. In the 12-year cycle, the Year of the Snake symbolizes a period for self-improvement, building long-term goals, and embracing new beginnings with confidence.

Here are some local events to help you ring in the new year:

KCCA 2025 Lunar New Year Festival at JCCC, January 18

The Lunar New Year Festival runs from 3 – 9:15 p.m. on January 18 at Johnson County Community College’s Yardley Hall. The Talent Show and Culture Showcase both offer free admission. Tickets for the Stage Art Performance start at $20. The festival promises to be a vibrant celebration filled with talented performers and rich cultural traditions. The program features an impressive lineup of performances, including Chinese folk dance, opera, traditional musical instruments, folk songs, ballet, piano, and more.

Café Cà Phê 2nd Annual Lunar New Year Night Market, January 25

Café Cà Phê will be hosting their HELLA GOOD DEEDS official launch party as well as ringing in the Year of the Snake with their 2nd Annual Lunar New Year Night Market at The Guild on January 25 starting at 6 p.m. There will be lion dancing by Pho Hien Lion Dance Troupe, traditional Lunar New Year activities including Li Xi tree and lucky raffles, photo booths, Asian vendors, food trucks, and performances. Plus, don’t miss a special appearance by Kansas City’s Japanese Barbie, Lana Luxx. 

KU Lion Dance Team Performance at South Branch Library, January 25

Celebrate Lunar New Year with a short performance by the KU Lion Dance Team on January 25 at the South Branch Library in Kansas City, Kansas. The performance will take place from 3 – 3:15 p.m. Lion dance is a traditional dance that originated in China and is typically performed during festivals to bring good luck and fortune. Performers dance and trick under a lion costume to the playing of instruments such as the drum, gong, and cymbals. 

Lunar New Year celebration at Nelson Atkins Museum of Art // Courtesy Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

Lunar New Year Festival at Nelson Atkins, January 26

A vibrant celebration at the free Lunar New Year Festival takes place on January 26 at the Nelson Atkins. The event will run from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. It will feature live performances and demonstrations by local artists, artmaking activities for the whole family, traditional cuisine, and educational experiences in the museum’s Asian art galleries.

Lunar New Year at Olathe Public Library, February 1

Celebrate Lunar New Year on February 1 at the Indian Creek Library in Olathe. From 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., enjoy an afternoon filled with crafts, games, a movie, and other fun activities for all ages. This family-friendly event will highlight the traditions of the holiday and provide a unique cultural experience for everyone in attendance.

Lunar New Year Celebration at Lenexa Public Market, February 2

Ring in the Lunar New Year at the Lenexa Public Market on February 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Step into the Year of the Snake and enjoy an exciting lineup of authentic performances, snake-themed board games, and delicious specialty dishes from Lenexa Public Market merchants. Whether you’re here to be entertained, indulge in tasty bites, or soak up the festive atmosphere, it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss.