2016 is the Year of the Monkey
The Lunar New Year will officially take place on Monday, Feb. 8, but many celebrations throughout the metro area start this weekend. Ring in the Year of the Monkey by watching live performances, tasting traditional fare and participating in these educational events.
Ninth Annual Chinese New Year Festival
Luther Jackson Middle School, Falls Church
Feb. 6, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
This all-day festival includes live music, Asian dancers, children’s games and crafts, cooking demonstrations, Chinese language workshops and the popular dragon parade. Admission is free.
Chinese New Year Family Day]
Kennedy Center, Washington, D.C.
Feb. 6, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Come to the Kennedy Center to revel in educational activities for kids such as Chinese paper-cutting lessons, Beijing Opera makeup demonstrations, costume dress up, Monkey King mask decorating, lantern making and more. This is a free event and no tickets are required.
13th Annual Lunar New Year Festival
Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax
Feb. 6 & 7, 1-5 p.m.
One of the grandest Lunar New Year celebrations in the nation is right here in Northern Virginia at Fair Oaks Mall. The two-day event features many performers, interactive cultural exhibits, hands-on activities for children, martial arts demonstrations and a special lantern festival. Over 200,000 visitors are expected to attend.
Eden Center Tet Celebration 2016
Falls Church
Feb. 8, 11 a.m.
The event kicks off with the annual flag raising ceremony and lion dance. After the festivities, indulge in treats or shop for unique treasures by visiting the over 120 Asian stores and restaurants at the Eden Center.
Celebrate Chinese New Year
Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets, Leesburg
Feb. 20, 1-3 p.m.
Stop by the food court to celebrate the Year of the Monkey with an afternoon of festivities including children’s crafts, food samples, martial arts demonstrations, a fashion show and a live performance.
Courtesy of Tiffany Brown, Mamaratzy Photography Micaela Williamson is a co-author of local travel guide Kid Trips Northern Virginia, an extraordinary resource that provides descriptions, useful information and insider tips for hundreds of local destinations. Micaela is also an award-winning blogger who enjoys supporting area businesses and scouting out family-friendly venues with her two young sons.
