Lunar New Year at the ROM fills the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto with drumbeats, calligraphy brushes and wishes tied to a tree over Ontario’s Family Day long weekend. It is an easy way to mix a museum day with a holiday celebration. The 2027 dates haven’t been announced yet; in 2026 it ran Saturday through Monday, February 14 to 16.
What to expect
- Lion dance performances in Chen Court each afternoon, at 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. in 2026
- A New Year Wish Tree with red envelopes, daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- A Chinese calligraphy pop-up with name translations, same hours
- Live Chinese music and storytelling sessions in Chen Court
The ROM has run Lunar New Year programs on Family Day weekend for years, with news releases from both 2016 and 2026. It makes a handy plan for a long weekend with the kids.
Good to know
- Last held: Saturday to Monday, February 14 to 16, 2026, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Admission: in 2016 the program was included with ROM general admission
- Venue: Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6
- Organizer: Royal Ontario Museum
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Lunar New Year at the ROM in 2027?
The ROM has not announced 2027 dates. The program runs over Ontario’s Family Day long weekend; in 2026 that was February 14 to 16.
Where is Lunar New Year at the ROM held?
It takes place inside the Royal Ontario Museum at 100 Queen’s Park in Toronto, with lion dances, music and storytelling in Chen Court.
What happens at Lunar New Year at the ROM?
Expect afternoon lion dances, a New Year Wish Tree with red envelopes, a Chinese calligraphy pop-up with name translations, and live music and storytelling.
Source: ROM – ROM rings in the Lunar New Year during Family Day weekend (Feb 9, 2026), ROM – Celebrate Lunar New Year with Family Day Weekend Events at the ROM (2016)
How Do I Get to Royal Ontario Museum?
Royal Ontario Museum is at 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6. Use the directions and parking links on this page to plan your trip from where you are.
Is the Lunar New Year at the ROM (Family Day Weekend) 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 Royal Ontario 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
Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6
Where to stay near Royal Ontario Museum
Coming from out of town? See hotels and rentals close to Royal Ontario Museum 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