Strolling between little international cottages while drums signal a lion dance is a lovely way to spend a winter weekend, and the Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair in San Diego offers exactly that. The free family fair is hosted by the House of China. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet; in 2026 it ran Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22, 2026.
What to expect
The fair is set around the international cottages in Balboa Park, on the House of Pacific Relations lawn and Pan American Lawn. Look for dragon and lion dances, martial arts demos and classical Chinese music.
Chinese food stalls and arts and crafts booths line the lawns, and exhibits explain the history and meaning of Chinese New Year. It’s a good stop if your kids ask why everything is red.
Good to know
- Last held: Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22, 2026
- Admission: free
- Venue: House of Pacific Relations lawn and Pan American Lawn, 2217 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, San Diego
- Organizer: House of China
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair in 2027?
The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet. It was last held Saturday and Sunday, February 21 and 22, 2026, and an earlier fair ran Saturday and Sunday, January 21 and 22, 2023.
Is the Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair free?
Yes. The House of China fair around the international cottages in Balboa Park is free.
What happens at the Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair?
You’ll find dragon and lion dances, martial arts, classical Chinese music, food stalls, crafts and exhibits on Chinese New Year.
Source: Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair, Feb 22 2026 (City of San Diego), Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair, Feb 21 2026 (City of San Diego)
How Do I Get to House of Pacific Relations lawn & Pan American Lawn, Balboa Park?
House of Pacific Relations lawn & Pan American Lawn, Balboa Park is at 2217 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
Is the Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair in San Diego 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 House of Pacific Relations lawn & Pan American Lawn, Balboa Park.
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
House of Pacific Relations lawn & Pan American Lawn, Balboa Park, 2217 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA
Where to stay near House of Pacific Relations lawn & Pan American Lawn, Balboa Park
Coming from out of town? See hotels and rentals close to House of Pacific Relations lawn & Pan American Lawn, Balboa Park on one map. Add your dates on the map to see prices.
Hotel map by Stay22. If you book through it, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How we earn money