Your family-friendly guide to Lunar New Year in Pittsburgh

Photo above from last year’s PCCC Greater Pittsburgh New Years Gala by Dylan Sun.

Lunar New Year is all about fresh starts, big flavors and sharing joyful moments with the people you love. 

Whether it’s adorable pig-shaped sweet buns, lion dances that make you forget the cold, or fairs packed with crafts and performances, the city’s Lunar New Year celebrations have something for everyone — and we mean everyone.

Whether you’re introducing little ones to the magic of the Lunar New Year or continuing beloved traditions, here’s how to dive into the Year of the Snake with a festive bang! 

Lunar New Year Parade in Squirrel Hill

February 16, 2025 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m. |  Murray Avenue

Dragons, drums, and dumplings — oh my! Squirrel Hill’s Lunar New Year Parade is making a triumphant return, and it’s a can’t-miss event. On Feb. 16, Murray Avenue will come alive with dazzling performances and the vibrant energy of the Year of the Snake. The street will be closed from Phillips to Forbes from 9 a.m. to noon, so grab a prime viewing spot early. After the parade, stick around to explore Squirrel Hill’s legendary eateries for a festive feast. 

2025 Greater Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Gala

January 25, 2025 | 1 p.m.–6:30 p.m. | Pittsburgh Playhouse

The Greater Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Gala returns to the Pittsburgh Playhouse on Jan. 25, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever. The day kicks off at 1 p.m. with free cultural activities — yes, free — featuring street food samples, games and live demonstrations.

This year’s theme, CivilizASIAN, promises a stunning fusion of Eastern and Western artistry, courtesy of visionary producer Xiang Gao. From 4 to 6:30 p.m., sit back (or edge forward) for jaw-dropping performances by the likes of the PCCC Performing Arts Group,  Xiaobo Waist Drum Dance Group, School of Oom Yung Doe, Pittsburgh Chinese School, Yanlai Dance Academy, and Carnegie Mellon’s finest.

Tickets for the performances: $38–$58. 

Lunar New Year Celebration at MuseumLab

January 25, 2025 | 1 p.m.–3 p.m. | MuseumLab

Ready to slither into the Year of the Wood Snake? Head to the MuseumLab for a family-friendly Lunar New Year bash. Kids will love the crafts, book readings, and live performances. Highlights include dazzling Chinese dance and yo-yo performances from OCA and Tzu-Chi, and the show-stealing Steel Dragon Lion Dance Team. It’s a perfect way to celebrate with your little ones! 

Tickets: Included with museum admission.

OCA Banquet 2025: Year of the Snake

February 15, 2025 |  5 p.m.–9 p.m. |  Szechuan Spice

Celebrate in grand style with the OCA Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Banquet. This luxurious evening features a 10-course feast, mesmerizing cultural performances, and raffle prizes (don’t forget cash for the baskets and bar!).

Tickets: $99 per person or $900 for a table of ten. Kids are welcome — lap-sitters are free, but those needing a seat will need their own ticket. Dress to impress in semi-formal or traditional attire.

Spiral Symphony: 28th Greater Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Fair and Show

January 26, 2025 |  11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Carnegie Music Hall Foyer

Embrace transformation and renewal at Spiral Symphony. From 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., enjoy a vibrant cultural fair with hands-on activities, music, dance, and cultural showcases. At 2:30 p.m., prepare to be wowed by performances featuring Taiko drumming, African and Chinese dances, Tai Chi demonstrations, and more.

Tickets: $20 early bird ($10 for members) or $25 regular ($15 for members). Kids under 3? Free!

Kid-Friendly Dumpling Feast at Chengdu Gourmet

Who says Lunar New Year can’t be cute and delicious? While Chengdu Gourmet is the go-to for setting your mouth on fire with spicy Sichuan flavors, it also knows how to charm the kids (and your inner kid). Think pig-shaped buns almost too cute to eat (almost), crispy scallion pancakes, and chewy ciba — glutinous rice cakes that are basically dessert. With locations in Squirrel Hill and McKnight Road, there’s no excuse to miss this dumpling feast. 

Lunar New Year Fun at The Parlor Dimsum

January 29–February 8, 2025

The Parlor Dimsum’s special Lunar New Year menu is packed with bold flavors and playful dishes for the whole family. Snap a photo of your feast, tag them on Instagram, and you might even win a $100 gift card!

Fun fact: Chef Roger Li was featured on “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” making coconut pudding. Watch the clip, then bring the kiddos to taste the magic for yourselves.

Read about the Tradition

A good way to bring the celebration home is to read “Chinese New Year” by Lisa Amstutz. This engaging book introduces kids to the traditions and excitement of Lunar New Year. Available at your local Carnegie Library branch or as eAudio on Hoopla, it’s a perfect way to learn about the traditions.