Last Updated on January 30, 2025
San Francisco is a vibrant town, one that my hubby and I love to visit every season of the year. But in winter, the city is lights up for the Chinese New Year where centuries-old traditions meet modern-day celebrations.
From giving red envelopes (hongbao) for good luck to enjoying firecrackers, dumplings and noodles, this vibrant festival is all about family, feasting and honoring ancestors. In 2025, the City by the Bay comes alive with dazzling parades, cultural showcases, and mouthwatering culinary experiences—making it the ultimate destination to ring in the Year of the Snake!
From timeless traditions to modern cultural showcases, here are the top 10 can’t-miss celebrations that will captivate locals and visitors alike.
1. Chinese New Year Parade (Feb. 15, 2025)
Witness one of the largest Chinese New Year parades outside of Asia, featuring illuminated floats, lion dancers and the iconic Golden Dragon, spanning over 200 feet long.
The Parade route starts at Market Street & Second Street.
2. Flower Market Fair (Feb. 8–9, 2025)
Explore the bustling streets of Chinatown transformed into a colorful marketplace filled with traditional decorations, blooming flowers, and festive treats at Grant Avenue & Pacific Avenue.
3. Community Street Fair (Feb. 15–16, 2025)
Celebrate in the heart of Chinatown with cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations and delicious street food at Grant Avenue between Broadway & Clay Streets.
4. Miss Chinatown USA Pageant (Feb. 13, 2025)
Experience an elegant showcase of beauty and talent as contestants from across the country vie for this coveted title. The event is held in the Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Avenue.
5. Snake Dance Celebration at Portsmouth Square (Feb. 10, 2025)
Marvel at traditional and exciting snake dance performances while enjoying storytelling and live music honoring the zodiac’s significance at 733 Kearny Street, San Francisco, CA 6.
6. Cultural Exhibition at the Chinese Culture Center (Ongoing, Feb. 2025)
Divedeeper into Chinese art and history through interactive exhibits and workshops at this center located at 750 Kearny Street, 3rd Floor.
7. Lunar New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Embarcadero (Feb. 1, 2025)
Kick off the festivities with a stunning display of fireworks over the San Francisco Bay. This event will be held at San Francisco’s Embarcadero Waterfront and there’s nothing like it.
8. Family Day at the Asian Art Museum (Feb. 16, 2025)
Bring the whole family to explore hands-on activities, special tours, and live performances celebrating Chinese culture. The museum is located at 200 Larkin Street.
9. Chinese Culinary Pop-Up (Dates Vary)
Savor exclusive Year of the Snake-themed dishes crafted by renowned chefs across San Francisco’s top restaurants at various locations all throughout the city.
10. Chinese New Year Treasure Hunt (Feb. 2, 2025)
Who doesn’t love a treasure hunt? Visitors and locals alike can embark on a citywide scavenger hunt discovering hidden gems and historical landmarks tied to Chinese culture. The event start location is at Justin Herman Plaza, 1 Market Street.
Where to Eat and Celebrate Chinese New Year with Friends & Family
San Francisco is renowned for its incredible eateries, especially Chinese restaurants. One of my friends who lives in the city stands by the adage that “If a restaurant doesn’t make it in six months of opening, it likely won’t make it at all.”
Thanks to the locals for sharing their favorite places to celebrate the Chinese New Year, ones that have definitely lasted the test of time.
Mister Jiu’s
Known for its creative fusion of traditional Chinese cuisine and modern influences, Mister Jiu’s, a Michelin starred and James Beard Foundation winner will offer a special multi-course Chinese New Year menu featuring symbolic dishes like longevity noodles and crispy fish.
Address: 28 Waverly Place, San Francisco, CA
China Live
This iconic restaurant and market voted “World’s Greatest Places” by Time Magazine and “Restaurant of the Year” by San Francisco Eater will present a festive dining experience with a special Year of the Snake menu, including their signature Peking duck and auspicious dumpling platters.
Address: 644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA
Dragon Beaux
Celebrated for its exquisite dim sum and hot pot, Dragon Beaux will feature unique dishes like gold-dusted buns and prosperity rolls, perfect for ringing in the new year.
Address: 5700 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA
R&G Lounge
A staple in Chinatown and renowned for serving San Francisco’s most iconic Cantonese cuisine, R&G Lounge will provide a celebratory menu featuring signature items such as salt and pepper crab, whole steamed fish, and sticky rice for good fortune.
Address: 631 Kearny Street, San Francisco, CA
If you’ve never been to San Francisco during Chinese New Year, it’s an amazing experience, especially given the city’s strong Chinese culture and history. We guarantee, you’ll love it.
