LunarFest GTA lights up historic Unionville village in Markham with an outdoor display of glowing lanterns, a quiet kind of magic on a winter evening. The free, drop-in festival is hosted at the Varley Art Gallery with craft workshops and film screenings. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet; in 2026 it ran Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22.
What to expect
The centerpiece is the outdoor Lunar Lanterns display. In 2026 the lantern exhibit stayed up long after the festival weekend, from February 21 to Friday, March 20, so you had weeks to catch it.
The festival weekend adds free themed craft workshops and film screenings. The 2025 edition, held February 1 and 2, also had an artist market and live performances. No registration is needed: just show up.
Good to know
- Last held: Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22, 2026, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Admission: free, drop-in, no registration required
- Venue: Varley Art Gallery, 216 Main Street Unionville, Markham, ON L3R 2H1
- Organizers: Varley Art Gallery with Arts for Canadians Tomorrow Society, Asian Canadian Special Events Association and Taiwanese Canadian Association of Toronto
Frequently Asked Questions
When is LunarFest GTA in 2027?
No 2027 dates have been set yet. LunarFest GTA last ran February 21 and 22, 2026, and in 2025 it was held February 1 and 2, both in the Lunar New Year season.
Is LunarFest GTA free?
Yes. LunarFest GTA is free and drop-in, with no registration required, including the craft workshops and film screenings.
What happens at LunarFest GTA?
Visitors stroll an outdoor Lunar Lanterns display in Unionville and join free craft workshops and film screenings. Past years also included an artist market and live performances.
Source: Varley Art Gallery – LunarFest 2025, Markham Review – LunarFest GTA returns to Varley Art Gallery (Jan 29, 2026)
How Do I Get to Varley Art Gallery?
Varley Art Gallery is at 216 Main Street Unionville, Markham, ON L3R 2H1. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
Is the LunarFest GTA at Varley Art Gallery in Markham Good for Kids?
Yes. We list it as a family-friendly Lunar New Year event. Check the official event page for kids' activities, strollers and seating before you go.
How to Get Here
The organizer hasn't published transit details yet. Tap Transit directions for live routes and times to Varley Art Gallery.
Where to Park
Parking near big Lunar New Year events fills early and some streets close. Arrive early, or take transit if you can.
Map
Varley Art Gallery, 216 Main Street Unionville, Markham, ON L3R 2H1
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