From lively galas to self-guided foodie tours, here is your complete guide to celebrating the Year of the Horse in North York.
Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) marks the beginning of the new year on the traditional lunisolar calendar. It is a time for family reunions, feasting, and inviting good fortune for the year ahead. 2026 is the Year of the Horse (specifically the Fire Horse), symbolizing energy, enthusiasm, and adventure.
People born in the Year of the Horse are said to be lively, charismatic, and adventurous. The "Fire Horse" element—occurring only once every 60 years—brings extra dynamic energy and momentum for bold new ventures.
The big weekend for Lunar New Year celebrations is almost here. Most events across the GTA land on February 21–22, with a few running through the end of the month. Here is what's coming up.
Nearly every Lunar New Year celebration in the GTA happens this weekend. If you can only pick one day, Saturday Feb 21 has the most options—from the North York Centre Atrium to Fairview Mall to Scarborough community festivals.
A major festival produced with the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto. Enjoy lion dances (1 PM & 3:30 PM daily), fan painting, calligraphy, and orchestral performances. Open daily 10 AM–5:30 PM through Feb 16.
The marquee community celebration in North York. The Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto hosts a full day of stage performances, cultural showcases, and vendor booths in the North York Centre Atrium.
A free community event hosted by local representatives featuring lion dances, crafts, and light refreshments. All are welcome.
A multi-day celebration at Fairview Mall. Lion dance walkthrough on Feb 21–22 (12–5 PM), an eye-dotting ceremony on Feb 26 (2–3 PM), and a stage performance showcase on Feb 28 (2 PM).
More events in Scarborough and Markham worth the trip.
A local community celebration hosted with Councillor Jamaal Myers, featuring a lion dance kick-off and cultural performances. A great morning stop before heading to North York Centre.
A unique "Food & Film" experience: a walking food tour of the Midland/Finch plazas followed by a screening of the film Finch & Midland at Cineplex STC.
Canada One Family Network's festival features a "God of Fortune" photo op, arts & crafts workshops, and lion dances across both days.
The largest Lunar New Year hub on the Scarborough/Markham border. Grand opening & lion dance Feb 21 (1 PM), cultural experience Feb 22 (1 PM), and an international stage show Feb 28 (1 PM).
An artistic take on the celebrations just north of Steeles, featuring "Lunar Lanterns," storytelling, and free family workshops.
A breathtaking orchestral concert featuring the Toronto Festival Orchestra. The program blends Eastern and Western musical traditions, including the "Yellow River Piano Concerto" and "Horse Racing" folk melodies.
A culinary adventure featuring 16 participating restaurants. Explore themed trails like "Taste of Yonge" and collect stamps to win gift cards. A delicious way to support local businesses!
The 8th annual "Chinese Story" gala showcasing spectacular music, dance, and traditional opera performances. An immersive cultural experience to welcome the new year.
A festive one-day bazaar with vendor booths, crafts, live performances, and DIY workshops. Perfect for families!
Get your home ready and stock up on traditional snacks at these top North York spots.
Price-checked picks for your Lunar New Year table. Verified as of Feb 15, 2026.
The top-rated inflation-proof deal on RedFlagDeals — buying raw and roasting yourself isn't worth it at this price.
View at T&T →Char Siu, Soy Chicken, and Roast Duck in one platter. The consensus pick for convenience — hard to beat for a group feast.
View at T&T →The interactive "Prosperity Toss" salad trending on TikTok — an accessible entry point vs. $60+ restaurant versions.
View at T&T →The legendary "Kum Hong lineup" — known among local foodies for the best fat-to-lean ratio in the GTA. Just north of Steeles.
Spotted at T&T in Fairview Mall! This intricately detailed dessert is perfect for Year of the Horse celebrations—or just a sweet treat for yourself. It's almost too cute to eat!