Discover the Lunar New Year festivities happening in Sarasota, including cultural performances, traditional ceremonies, food festivals, and night markets. Join in the celebrations and experience the joy and traditions of this auspicious holiday.
Lunar New Year Celebration by Sarasota Sister Cities
( Credit to: Sarasotamagazine )
Experience the joyous festivities of Lunar New Year in Sarasota at the Lunar New Year Celebration organized by Sarasota Sister Cities. This event, honoring the sister city relationship between Sarasota and Xiamen, China, promises an afternoon of cultural performances, traditional music, and dance.
( Credit to: Sarasotamagazine )
Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 10th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and head over to 8350 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota for this free event. Don't forget to RSVP to secure your spot and enjoy Asian snacks while immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Lunar New Year.
Sarasota Vietnamese Festival at the Happy Monastery
Join the vibrant celebrations of Tết, the Vietnamese New Year, at the Sarasota Vietnamese Festival hosted by the Happy Monastery, also known as Tu Viện Hạnh Phúc. This festival, taking place on Sunday, February 11th, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., offers a range of exciting activities and cultural experiences.
At the Lockwood Ridge Road campus, you can witness a traditional Tết ceremony, enjoy the raising of the Tết pole symbolizing the start of the new year, and be mesmerized by fireworks lighting up the sky. Indulge in a vegetarian food festival, witness a fashion show featuring traditional Vietnamese clothing, and explore art displays and games.
With free admission, the Sarasota Vietnamese Festival at the Happy Monastery is a must-visit event to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and vibrant culture of the Vietnamese New Year.
Lunar New Year Night Market at UTC
Experience the energy and excitement of the Lunar New Year at the Lunar New Year Night Market at UTC. Taking place on Thursday, February 15th, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., this monthly night market celebration is a perfect way to embrace the year of the dragon.
Enjoy browsing through local vendors, savor delicious food, and sip on refreshing drinks while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Special performances including a dragon dance and a lion dance will captivate your senses and add to the festive ambiance.
Head over to The Green at 125 N. Cattlemen Road in Sarasota for this free event and celebrate Lunar New Year in style at the Lunar New Year Night Market.
Welcoming the Year of the Dragon
As we welcome the year of the dragon, symbolizing strength, power, good health, fortune, and wisdom, it is a time to come together with loved ones, enjoy delicious food, and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of Lunar New Year.
While Sarasota may not have an abundance of events, these celebrations provide an opportunity to experience the joy and traditions of this auspicious holiday. Whether you choose to attend the Lunar New Year Celebration by Sarasota Sister Cities, the Sarasota Vietnamese Festival at the Happy Monastery, or the Lunar New Year Night Market at UTC, you're sure to have a memorable and festive Lunar New Year celebration in Sarasota.
Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous Lunar New Year in 2024!