Search inspiration
The Bay Bridge at sunset. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.
Spend Chinese New Year in San Francisco
Qadro MohamudJanuary 22, 2025
Chinese New Year is a time to welcome the lunar year with loved ones during a 15-day celebration. 2025 is the Year of the Snake, meaning it’s a year of introspection, mystery and intelligence. There’s no better way to mark the holiday than in San Francisco, home to the largest Chinese New Year celebration in the U.S. From dazzling parades and lion dances to delicious traditional foods, our guide covers the must-see events and activities in San Francisco during this festive time.
Be prepared
- Public transportation to the event is strongly encouraged.
- The parade is free to watch from the street, but bleacher seats are available for purchase.
- Bring earplugs if you're sensitive to loud sounds like firecrackers, drums, and cymbals, which are believed to ward off evil spirits.
New Year parade
A sea of color rushing down the streets. Massive dragons dancing under the stars. Bright traditional costumes, fire and performances. The Chinese New Year Parade is one of San Fransico's most highly-anticipated events and the largest celebration in the Western Hemisphere.
One of the parade’s highlights is the convoy of vibrant floats that burst with color, the main one dedicated to the animal of the year. And since 2025 is the Year of the Snake, expect to see intricate snake-themed designs and symbolic representations of this zodiac animal, which in Chinese culture is linked to metamorphosis, wisdom and intuition. “Snakes are also revered for their ability to shed their skin and renew themselves, symbolizing transformation and rebirth”, says Jill Lander.
Treasure hunt
The Chinese New Year Treasure Hunt offers a thrilling way to explore and discover a different side of San Francisco. Designed by a former private investigator, this adventure game is for participants of all ages and skill levels, and it’s raised tens of thousands of dollars for local non-profits over the years.
By solving clever clues, teams race to uncover hidden gems around the city—forgotten plaques, historical landmarks and artistic details often overlooked. There are prizes for the fastest team, the most creative name (bonus points for Year of the Snake puns) and the best costumes. But you'll need to buy a ticket to get all the clues and play!
Flower Market Fair
The Flower Market Fair marks the start of the lunar year, held annually on the weekend before Chinese New Year. With over 120 booths overflowing with fresh flowers, fruits, candies and home supplies, this is the perfect place to kick off celebrations. As you weave through the stunning stands, pause to enjoy performances of traditional acrobatics, folk dancing and opera. Be sure to pick up oranges and tangerines for happiness and flowers to bring growth and prosperity in the new year.
Festive eats
Across the city, festive foods take center stage with dumplings, pastries and creative cocktails. Dine on shrimp and chive dumplings at China Live and indulge in sweet treats from B. Patisserie’s decadent Lunar New Year menu featuring black sesame kouign-amann. Try Little Moon Bakehouse’s modern takes on nostalgic Asian pastries, including red bean mooncakes and chocolate chunk mooncookies. For a toast to the season, Dragon Horse in SoMa offers cocktails like the Hong Bao Na Lai, inspired by the red envelope tradition of giving money as a symbol of luck and protection.