Firecrackers, drums and a pair of hungry lions mark the Chinese New Year Celebration at the Chinese Culture Center in Albuquerque, a free outdoor show in front of the three-story pagoda at Lin’s Martial Arts. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet. In 2026 it was held Saturday, February 21, from 1 to 2:30 pm, as the 36th annual demonstration, billed that year as the Chinese New Year Extravaganza for the Year of the Fire Horse.
What to expect
Lin’s Martial Arts students, including the kids’ team, perform martial arts, ribbon dancing, lion dancing and dragon dancing. The Albuquerque Chinese Folk Dance Ensemble adds folk dances.
The show ends with a firecracker burning and the Feeding of the Lions. About 300 chairs are set out, the show goes on rain or shine, and a food truck (Umami Moto) is on site. Bring a few dollars: cash you give the lion dancers helps fund the event.
Good to know
- Last held: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1-2:30 pm
- Admission: free
- Venue: Chinese Culture Center – Lin’s Martial Arts, 427 Adams St SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108
- Organizer: Chinese Culture Center & Lin’s Martial Arts Academy
- Parking: on nearby streets
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Chinese New Year Celebration at the Chinese Culture Center in 2027?
The 2027 date hasn’t been announced yet. It was last held Saturday, February 21, 2026, and the center has celebrated Lunar New Year since 1992.
Is the Albuquerque Chinese Culture Center celebration free?
Yes, the outdoor show is free. Cash tips for the lion dancers help pay for it.
What happens at the Chinese Culture Center’s Chinese New Year show?
Students perform martial arts and lion, dragon and ribbon dances, a folk dance ensemble takes a turn, and it all wraps up with firecrackers and the Feeding of the Lions.
Source: Chinese New Year Extravaganza – Year of the Fire Horse – Visit Albuquerque, Slither on over: Chinese Cultural Center celebrates the Year of the Snake – Albuquerque Journal
How Do I Get to Chinese Culture Center - Lin's Martial Arts?
Chinese Culture Center - Lin's Martial Arts is at 427 Adams St SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Parking: Parking is on nearby streets. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
Is the Albuquerque Chinese Culture Center Chinese New Year Celebration 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 Chinese Culture Center - Lin's Martial Arts.
Map
Chinese Culture Center - Lin's Martial Arts, 427 Adams St SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108
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