The Chinese calendar observes the Lunar New Year (Jan 25-Feb 8) on the second full moon after the Winter Solstice, a time when streets and homes are adorned with lucky red decorations and families gather to celebrate with food and firecrackers. This year, Tacoma will recognize the Year of the Rat with the Asia Pacific Cultural Center's annual Lunar New Year celebration and a community-wide event in the revitalized Lincoln District with an afternoon of food and live events. Check out our roundup of this year's best events in Tacoma below.
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FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
Tết Celebration 2020
Celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Rat at the University of Washington Tacoma. Experience Vietnamese culture at this free event that's open to students and non-students alike. In addition to the Lion Dance, there will be raffles, drinks, games, and food from Linh Son Restaurant, Bambu, and Red Bull.
University of Washington Tacoma
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
Chinese New Year Party 2020
This free event will offer catered food and mini-workshops centered on Feng Shui, the Chinese Zodiac, and the New Year/New Moon Ritual ceremony. All who attend will go home with a prosperity gift recognizing the Year of the Rat.
Crescent Moon Gifts
Lucky Lunar New Year
Commemorate the Lunar New Year with games and giveaways, including a collectible Players Club card and plush toy. Visitors can also check out 8, the casino's Asian restaurant, to try the Crispy Langostino Roll and Green Tea Ice Cream Parfait.
Muckleshoot Casino
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
Asia Pacific Cultural Center's 22nd Annual Lunar New Year Celebration
The largest Lunar New Year party in the South Sound (according to the organizers) will center on the country and culture of Vietnam. There will be food, games, retail booths, and live entertainment in the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall.
Tacoma Dome
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
Lunar New Year in Lincoln District 2020 - Year of the Rat
Support the local businesses in the newly revitalized Lincoln District while you celebrate the Year of the Rat. There'll be family-friendly activities, music, lion dancers, and, of course, plenty of food.
Lincoln District
