Lunar New Year at Multnomah County Library is a special time to enjoy the rich history and traditions celebrated in cultures all across Asia. At the end of January or early February, a new lunar calendar year begins, with a zodiac animal guiding each lunar year. This year — 2026 — marks the Year of the Horse. Join the library for Lunar New Year events in February!
This year, we’re excited to welcome you to Midland Library on February 21 for a special celebration featuring lion dance, performances, crafting, music and more. Programming will be presented in Chinese, Vietnamese and English.
"Bringing the Lunar New Year celebration to life for our patrons has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” says Emily Ming-Tzu Cooper, a member of the library’s planning team for Lunar New Year this year. She continues, “We hope the Year of the Horse brings everyone success and good fortune.”
Lunar New Year traditions vary by country and region, and can last anywhere from 3 to 16 days. They often include large gatherings consisting of performances, music and fireworks. This year Lunar New Year begins on February 17.
“Lunar New Year is a wonderful time for family gathering, feasting, receiving and giving red envelopes, and welcoming the new year with lion and dragon dance performances,” said Toan Lam-Sullivan, a bilingual regional librarian also on the Lunar New Year planning team.
In Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, the Year of the Horse is the seventh of the 12 signs. The Horse represents energy, intelligence and resilience. Each year, the zodiac animal is paired with a different element, and in 2026, the Horse is paired with fire. Fire represents passion, brightness, and courage. The last Year of the Fire Horse was in 1966, and the next will be in 2086.
The library has hosted Lunar New Year events and activities for over 10 years, thanks to the support and dedication of the library’s Chinese and Vietnamese team. The events often bring together hundreds of patrons of all ages to celebrate. Find more information about events and programming online or at a library near you!
