From hands-on activities to cultural festivals, communities across Iowa are welcoming the Lunar New Year with vibrant celebrations throughout February. Marking the Year of the Horse, these events highlight the traditions, art, food, and cultural significance of the Lunar New Year as it is celebrated in Chinese, Korean, and other Asian cultures. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, an educational experience, or a festive night out, here’s a look at where and how to celebrate Lunar New Year across Iowa.
Lunar New Year Events in Iowa City
Feb. 17: Lunar New Year at The Iowa Children’s Museum
The Iowa Children’s Museum will celebrate Lunar New Year with a full-day event honoring the Year of the Horse from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In partnership with the Midwest Chinese Academy, the celebration highlights Lunar New Year traditions cherished across many Asian cultures, with a special focus on Chinese customs. Visitors of all ages are invited to enjoy hands-on art activities, take part in a museum-wide Chinese Zodiac Animal Scavenger Hunt, and watch a Lion and Dragon dance performance by the West High School Asian Student Union at 11:30 a.m. The event provides a fun and interactive way for families to experience the sights, sounds, and traditions of the Lunar New Year.
Feb. 20: Chinese New Year Festival
Iowa City
The Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) is hosting a Lunar New Year Festival from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Iowa Memorial Union, celebrating the traditions and cultural richness of China’s most important holiday. Centered on China’s cultural heritage, the festival will feature interactive, hands-on activities, a traditional New Year’s Eve feast, and a lineup of performances.
Lunar New Year Events in Sioux City
Feb. 7: Lunar New Year at Sioux City Public Museum
Sioux City
The Sioux City Public Museum will welcome the Lunar New Year with a free, family-friendly celebration from 1 to 3 p.m. The event will highlight the cultural traditions and community spirit of this globally celebrated holiday, featuring a traditional lion dance performed by the Pho Mon Lion Dance Youth Group from Pho Mon Temple of Sioux City. Guests can also enjoy child-friendly stories read by Nancy Li and take part in festive craft activities.
Lunar New Year Events in Des Moines
Feb. 14: 2026 Iowa Chinese New Year Celebrations
West Des Moines
The Chinese Association of Iowa will host the 2026 Iowa Chinese New Year Celebrations from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Western Hills Elementary School. The Chinese Association of Iowa has organized these annual celebrations since 2004, bringing together cultural, educational, and community-focused programming across central Iowa. This year’s event will include the U.S.-Asian Business, Cultural, and Education Forum from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by the Iowa Chinese Achievement Awards Ceremony and New Year festivities from noon to 2 p.m. Attendees can enjoy a full afternoon of food, music, dance, art activities, cultural exhibits, and children’s games.
Feb. 28: Korean New Year Family Storytime
Des Moines
The Central Library will host a Korean New Year Family Storytime from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. in Meeting Rooms 1, 2, and 3. Led by Miss Minsu, the program invites children and their accompanying adults to celebrate the Korean Lunar New Year through a shared story, an introduction to the holiday’s cultural significance, and a hands-on craft activity. Free library parking is available in the Central Library’s underground garage for up to two hours.
Lunar New Year Events in Quad Cities
Feb. 17: Lunar New Year Paint Nite
Bettendorf…