Did you know that 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac? Each year the lunar calendar is represented by one of 12 animals — this year, we can expect plenty of peaceful and patient energy.
Though its official dates vary across different Asian cultures, the Lunar New Year is a celebration of the start of spring and a new year on the lunisolar calendar. There are plenty of ways to celebrate around the City of Oaks, so let’s hop to it.
Artspace Winter Family Day | Saturday, Jan. 21 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Artspace, 201 E. Davie St., Raleigh | Free | Celebrate the Lunar New Year and the “When We Are Still Together” exhibition by Taiwanese-American artist Jan-Ru Wan. There will be demos by Artspace studio artists, plus cultural activities and performances in collaboration with the Raleigh Chinese Language School.
Lunar New Year Celebration | Saturday, Jan. 21 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | The Fruit, 305 S. Dillard St., Durham | Free | Triangle Pop-Up is hosting this celebration in honor of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year — AKA the Year of the Cat — and the Year of the Rabbit with Asian American- and Pacific Islander-owned businesses, food trucks such as Southern Fried Lumpia Co., and performances like an Empire Lion Dance.
Try scratch-made lumpia with a sweet chili dipping sauce at The Fruit.
Photo provided by @sofrilumco
Lunar New Year Celebration | Sunday, Jan. 22 | 2-4 p.m. | Lake Lynn Community Center, 7921 Ray Rd., Raleigh | Free | Enjoy crafts, games, a lion dance, demonstrations by Wah Lum Kung Fu, and authentic Korean barbecue from the Bulkogi food truck.
2023 Chinese New Year Festival | Saturday, Jan. 28 | Dorton Arena, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | $7-$10 | Join the Triangle Area Chinese American Society for this festival featuring authentic international food and drink options, family-friendly activities, and performances.
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