Drums will echo through the streets of Montreal’s Chinatown this weekend as the neighbourhood prepares to ring in Lunar New Year.
Organizers say the celebration will highlight Asian traditions while bringing much-needed energy to Chinatown during the winter months. Crowds are expected to pack the sidewalks, stopping by local shops and restaurants as traditional dancing lions make their way through the area delivering blessings for the Year of the Fire Horse.
Lunar New Year parade in Montreal’s Chinatown on Feb. 21, 2026. (Alan Sukonnik, CityNews)
The free festivities, organized by Asie en fête, will feature traditional lion dances, cultural performances, family-friendly workshops and glowing light installations centred around Place Sun Yat-Sen.
“People want to touch the lion for good luck, and this is the cultural tradition for more than 3000 years in China,” said Jimmy Chan, president of Montreal Chan Lion Dance Club.
Lunar New Year parade in Montreal’s Chinatown on Feb. 21, 2026. (Alan Sukonnik, CityNews)
With vibrant costumes, rhythmic drumming and community spirit on display, the event aims to welcome the new lunar year while drawing visitors to the heart of the neighbourhood.
“The Fire Horse is a lot of energy and it is the year to do great things, so a lot of people come together, get blessing, have lines dancing,” said Chan.
Lunar New Year parade in Montreal’s Chinatown on Feb. 21, 2026. (Alan Sukonnik, CityNews)
Lunar New Year parade in Montreal’s Chinatown on Feb. 21, 2026. (Alan Sukonnik, CityNews)