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Lunar New Year Family Festival

Sat Feb 21 2026

11 am–2 pm

Seattle Asian Art Museum

Free with admission

Photo: Chloe Collyer

Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse with SAM's annual Lunar New Year Family Festival at the Seattle Asian Art Museum! Enjoy outdoor lion dances, drop-in art activities with local artists, storytelling and more surprises inspired by the holiday.

11 am | Illustrated storytime
Experience a live illustrated storytime with Julie Kim inspired by the holiday.

noon | Lion dance
Kick off the new year with a free outdoor lion dance and martial arts demonstration by Mak Fai Lion Dance!

noon–1 pm| Live calligraphy 
Set an intention for the new year through Vietnamese calligraphy and a gifted prosperity word with artist, Linh Nguyễn!

1 pm | Lion dance
Spread joy, happiness, and blessings of good health with a free outdoor lion dance by the Lieu Quan Lion Dance team!

All day
Food and beverage
Dumplings, edamame, and non-alcoholic beverages sold by Shooby Doo Catering.

Art activity
Contribute to a community horse sculpture with a participatory prize designed by local artist Monyee Chau. The result will be displayed at the museum for all to see.

Photo booth
Smile for the camera in a photo booth hosted by heyfunday events & experiences.

While food, drinks, and large backpacks are not permitted in the galleries, we encourage all families to bring personal snacks and beverages to enjoy all throughout the museum's lower level. All personal belongings can be stored in the self-serve lockers on a first-come, first-served basis.

All programming is included with suggested museum admission and free for community pass partners. Capacity is limited.

Related program

Community Celebrations

Community Celebrations are free events designed for the whole family, full of art-making activities, performances, and unexpected art experiences—all in collaboration with community partners!

view program

Related program

Family Saturdays

Create art that connects with world cultures inspired by SAM's Asian art collection. On select Saturdays, children and their caregivers explore the Seattle Asian Art Museum and get creative at art-making stations.

view program

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