Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is a very significant ancient celebration in China. For several years now, this festival has also been celebrated in many other parts of the world where Chinese communities live, including Valencia. The celebration will begin on 17 February 2026 with an impressive parade that will start at Calle Pelayo at 5.30 p.m. and end at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

This celebration marks the beginning of the lunar year and it is a time for families to come together, enjoy traditional dishes, and take part in cultural events and activities. The most curious thing is that the beginning of the year doesn’t coincide with ours. Unlike the Western calendar, which is based on a solar calendar, the Eastern Chinese calendar is based on a lunisolar calendar, which means that the start date of the year indicates the phase of the moon.

There are many activities and curiosities associated with this event that you might find interesting. Learn about how the city of Turia is preparing to welcome the Year of the Wood snake, from the parade to the festivities that will commemorate the Chinese New Year in Valencia 2026. Shall we get started?

Chinese New Year Parade in Valencia 2026

On Saturday, 17 February 2026, Valencia will celebrate the traditional Chinese New Year Parade, which will wind its way through the city centre with colourful costumes, music and traditional performances.

Start time: around 5:30 p.m.
Route: starting at Calle Pelayo, continuing along Xàtiva and Marqués de Sotelo, and ending at Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
The parade will feature dragon and lion dances, martial arts groups, traditional music, floats, and entertainment for the whole family.

The Federation of Chinese Associations of the Valencian Community will lead the organisation of the event, with support from the Confucius Institute of the University of Valencia and collaboration from other institutions.

This year is the Year of the Fire Horse

2026 is the Year of the Horse according to the Chinese zodiac, and its element is fire, symbolising energy, passion and dynamism for the coming months.

In the cycle of the 12 animals of the Chinese horoscope, the horse comes after the snake and before the goat. Each animal is combined with one of the Five Elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water), forming a 60-year cycle.

Program of activities for the Chinese New Year in Valencia

The Chinese New Year is the most important celebration in China and has become one of Valencia’s most popular festivals and traditions. Along with the Great Parade, there will be several free family activities to enjoy in Plaza del Ayuntamiento on February 17.

The Confucius Institute offers a range of cultural and folkloric activities, including traditional dances and songs, Chinese calligraphy, knot-tying, the lantern festival, and children’s workshops. The schedule for these activities will be available soon on its website.

This event offers Valencians and visitors a unique opportunity to experience Chinese culture and engage with its traditional elements, including colourful costumes, native martial arts, tai chi, and authentic cuisine such as fish.

The best accommodations for Chinese New Year in Valencia

Discover the perfect fusion of Chinese New Year tradition and contemporary comfort at HQ Rooms apartments in the heart of Valencia. Enjoy the festivities from the comfort of your accommodation, just minutes away from the start of the 2026 Chinese New Year Grand Parade.

HQ Rooms has apartments in Valencia that are carefully located. These apartments not only offer a unique place to rest, but also provide the perfect starting point to explore all the wonders that the Chinese New Year in Valencia has to offer in 2026. Make the most of your stay by discovering the best hiking routes in Valencia and turning your time into a memorable experience.

Author
Recent Posts

HQ Rooms

HQ Rooms es una empresa de alojamiento vacacional en Valencia que ofrece apartamentos totalmente equipados para familias, grupos y profesionales. Disfruta de comodidad, ubicación privilegiada y servicios como parking y recepción en el mismo edificio, diseñados para que te sientas como en casa.