The Peabody Essex Museum Lunar New Year Festival in Salem sends families hunting through the galleries for all 12 zodiac animals, with a lion and dragon dance to kick things off. It is a museum day that feels like a party. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet; in 2026 it was held Saturday, February 21.
What to expect
- A lion and dragon dance by Gund Kwok, an all-Asian women’s troupe, followed by a meet-and-greet
- A museum-wide scavenger hunt for the 12 zodiac animals
- Red envelope decorating and art making
- Self-guided tours of Yin Yu Tang, a late-18th-century Chinese house
Finding all 12 animals takes a little detective work, which is half the fun.
Good to know
- Last held: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tickets: 2026 tickets started at $10; in 2025 they were $25 for adults and free for visitors under 16
- Venue: Peabody Essex Museum, 161 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970
- Organizer: Peabody Essex Museum
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Peabody Essex Museum Lunar New Year Festival in 2027?
PEM has not announced a 2027 date. The festival was last held February 21, 2026, and in 2025 on February 15.
Is the Peabody Essex Museum Lunar New Year Festival free?
No, it is ticketed. Tickets in 2026 started at $10, and in 2025 visitors under 16 got in free.
What happens at the Peabody Essex Museum Lunar New Year Festival?
Expect a lion and dragon dance by Gund Kwok, a zodiac scavenger hunt, red envelope decorating, art making and self-guided tours of Yin Yu Tang.
Source: Boston Globe – Lion dances, dumpling making and more (Feb 12, 2026), WBUR – Boston Lunar New Year events (Feb 19, 2026)
How Do I Get to Peabody Essex Museum?
Peabody Essex Museum is at 161 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
Is the Peabody Essex Museum Lunar New Year Festival in Salem 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 Peabody Essex Museum.
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
Peabody Essex Museum, 161 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970
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