The Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade turns Wentworth Avenue in Chicago into a river of drums, dragons and red. Picture yourself at the curb as lion dancers weave past, heads bobbing to the beat. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet; in 2026 the parade ran Sunday, March 1, from 1 to 3 p.m.
What to expect
The parade steps off at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue and heads north on Wentworth toward a viewing stand at Cermak Road. Along the way you’ll see lion and dragon dance teams, floats, marching bands, and dancers from local schools and community groups.
The fun keeps going after the last float rolls by. Lion dancers visit Chinatown businesses to bless them for the new year, so follow the drums. Just remember: the dragon always gets the right of way. The 2026 parade marked the Year of the Horse and Chinatown’s 114th anniversary.
Good to know
- Last held: Sunday, March 1, 2026, 1 to 3 p.m. (the 2025 parade was Sunday, February 9)
- Admission: free to watch along the route
- Where: starts at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue in Chinatown, Chicago, IL, and heads north toward Cermak Road
- Organizer: Chicago Chinatown Community Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade in 2027?
The 2027 date hasn’t been announced yet. The parade was last held Sunday, March 1, 2026, and in recent years it has landed between late January and early March, during the Lunar New Year season.
Is the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade free?
Yes. The parade is free to watch from anywhere along the route on Wentworth Avenue.
What happens at the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade?
Lion and dragon dance teams, floats, marching bands and school and community dancers travel north on Wentworth Avenue from 24th Street toward Cermak Road. Afterward, lion dancers visit Chinatown businesses to bless them for the new year.
Source: South Side Weekly: Chinatown celebrates the Year of the Fire Horse, WFMT: Chicago Celebrates the Year of the Horse
How Do I Get to Wentworth Avenue, Chinatown (starts at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue)?
Wentworth Avenue, Chinatown (starts at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue) is at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue, Chicago, IL. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
How to Get Here
The organizer hasn't published transit details yet. Tap Transit directions for live routes and times to Wentworth Avenue, Chinatown (starts at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue).
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
Wentworth Avenue, Chinatown (starts at 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue), 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue, Chicago, IL