Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year 2026: What Travellers Need to Know

Chinese New Year 2026 falls on 17 February 2026 and marks the start of the Lunar New Year. It is one of the most important festivals in Asia. The celebrations usually last for 15 days and end with the Lantern Festival. Streets fill with colour. Firecrackers echo through cities. Families travel home in their millions. For travellers, this is an exciting time to visit Asia. But it also requires careful planning.

Which Countries Celebrate Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year is widely celebrated across Asia, especially in places with large Chinese communities.

The biggest celebrations take place in:

• China – The heart of the festival and home to the world’s largest annual migration.

• Hong Kong – Famous for its skyline fireworks and lively parades.

• Taiwan – Known for temple visits and lantern festivals.

• Singapore – Chinatown becomes a sea of red and gold decorations.

• Malaysia – Large public celebrations, especially in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

It is also widely celebrated in:

• Vietnam (where it is called Tết)

• South Korea (known as Seollal)

• Indonesia

• Philippines

Each country has its own customs. But the themes are similar. Family. Good fortune. New beginnings.

Chinese New Year Traditions

Preparations begin weeks before the holiday. Homes are cleaned to sweep away bad luck. Red decorations are hung on doors. Red symbolises prosperity and happiness. On New Year’s Eve, families gather for a reunion dinner. This is the most important meal of the year. Dishes often include fish for abundance and dumplings for wealth.

Children receive red envelopes filled with money. Lion and dragon dances take place in city streets. Fireworks are set off to scare away evil spirits. Temples are busy as people pray for health and success in the year ahead. The festival ends with the Lantern Festival. Colourful lanterns light up the night sky. It is a beautiful sight for visitors.

How Chinese New Year Affects Foreign Travellers

Chinese New Year travel can be busy and expensive. In China, this period is called “Chunyun”. It is the largest annual human migration in the world. Trains and flights sell out weeks in advance. Hotels often increase prices. Tourist attractions can be crowded. Popular sightseeing spots may require advance booking.

However, the atmosphere is electric. Cities are decorated with lanterns. Night markets are lively. Cultural performances take place daily. For many travellers, the festive mood makes it worth the crowds.

What Is Normally Open and Closed?

During the first few days of the holiday:

• Government offices are usually closed.

• Banks may close for several days.

• Small family-run shops often shut so owners can return home.

Large shopping centres and tourist attractions in major cities usually remain open. Restaurants in tourist areas often stay open, though some may operate shorter hours. In places like Singapore and Hong Kong, most public transport continues running as normal. In mainland China and Vietnam, transport is extremely busy but still operational.

Always check local schedules in advance. Book trains, flights and hotels early.

Is It a Good Time to Visit?

Chinese New Year 2026 can be a fantastic time to travel in Asia. See authentic traditions. Taste festive food. Experience real local culture. But you must plan ahead. Expect crowds. Expect higher prices. Allow extra time for travel.

If you enjoy cultural festivals and vibrant street celebrations, Lunar New Year in Asia is unforgettable. With good preparation, it can be one of the most exciting travel experiences of your life.