Lunar New Year at OMCA turns the Oakland Museum of California in Oakland into a day of drums, crafts and a scavenger hunt through the galleries. Think of it as a museum visit where the art comes with a lion dance. The 2027 date hasn’t been announced yet.
What to expect
The museum’s 25th annual celebration was held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11am to 4pm. The Garden Stage featured a lion dance, Korean drumming, Filipino kulintang (music played on a row of small tuned gongs) and a closing lion and dragon dance.
- Horse puppet-making, red envelope decorating and a wishing tree
- K-pop dance lessons
- A Zodiac Animal Quest through the galleries
- Food from Bay Area AAPI chefs and artisan vendors
Yes, you can learn K-pop moves and make a horse puppet on the same afternoon.
Good to know
- Last held: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 11am to 4pm
- Admission: $19 general, $16 seniors, $12 youth and students; free for members and kids 12 and under
- Location: Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak Street, Oakland, CA 94607
- Transit: one block from Lake Merritt BART, at 10th and Oak Streets
- Parking: onsite underground parking
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Lunar New Year at OMCA in 2027?
OMCA hasn’t announced its 2027 date yet. The 25th annual celebration was last held Saturday, February 21, 2026.
Is Lunar New Year at OMCA free?
It’s free for members and kids 12 and under; museum admission is $19 general, $16 seniors and $12 youth and students.
What happens at Lunar New Year at OMCA?
You can watch lion dance and Korean drumming, make horse puppets, decorate red envelopes, take a K-pop dance lesson and follow a Zodiac Animal Quest through the galleries.
Source: OMCA press release: 25th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration Feb. 21, NBC Bay Area: Lunar New Year 2026 Bay Area events
How Do I Get to Oakland Museum of California?
Oakland Museum of California is at 1000 Oak Street, Oakland, CA 94607. Transit: One block from Lake Merritt BART, at 10th and Oak Streets. Parking: Onsite underground parking. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
Is the Lunar New Year at OMCA 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
One block from Lake Merritt BART, at 10th and Oak Streets
Map
Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak Street, Oakland, CA 94607
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