Lunar New Year is a time of joy, renewal, and celebration, and Arlington, Virginia, is bringing the festivities to life with a variety of exciting events. Whether you’re looking for traditional performances, delicious treats, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to welcome the Year of the Snake. Here’s a roundup of the best ways to celebrate Lunar New Year in Arlington in 2025.
Lunar New Year Celebration at Central Place Plaza in Rosslyn
For 2025, Rosslyn BID will be hosting a Lunar New Year Celebration at Central Place Plaza Tuesday, January 28th from 5-7 to celebrate the year of the Snake. Enjoy a Lion Dance, known to be a symbol of power and wisdom, and believed to bring good luck to communities. This traditional dance has been a part of lunar new year celebrations for centuries. There will also be fortune cookies, ceremonial tea and more. Free tickets are available on Eventbrite.
Ice Cream Jubilee Lunar New Year Scoops
Kick off the celebrations with a sweet treat from Ice Cream Jubilee in Ballston. Starting today, you can enjoy a variety of Asian-inspired flavors, including Red Bean Almond Cookie, Strawberry Matcha Latte, Mango Sticky Rice, and Thai Iced Tea. Can’t choose just one? Opt for the $10 tasting flight and sample multiple flavors. Location: 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Ballston)
Lunar New Year Party at Upside on Moore
Rosslyn’s popular food hall, Upside on Moore, is hosting an all-day Lunar New Year celebration on February 1. Start the day with a free yoga class at 9:30 a.m., indulge in Chinese fusion dishes, and enjoy happy hour beginning at 11 a.m. Hourly raffles begin at 3:30. The highlight of the evening will be a spectacular lion dance performance at 5:30 p.m. Location: 1700 N. Moore St., Arlington (Rosslyn)
Lunar New Year at Long Branch Nature Center
Looking for a kid-friendly way to celebrate? The Long Branch Nature Center is hosting a special event on February 1 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Families can enjoy live animal encounters, Lunar New Year-themed crafts, and a short hike to set off paper popper “firecrackers” to ward off Nian, a mythical New Year’s beast. Registration is required, and tickets are $9. Location: 625 S. Carlin Springs Road, Arlington (Glencarlyn)
Rosslyn Trike: Lunar New Year Giveaway
Celebrate in a fun and unique way with Rosslyn BID’s Lunar New Year giveaway. On February 5, find the Rosslyn BID Trike at Central Place Plaza starting at noon for a chance to receive free neighborhood-themed fortune cookies while supplies last. Location: 1800 N. Lynn St., Arlington (Rosslyn)
2025 Lunar New Year Celebration at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City
On February 8, head to the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City for an afternoon of live entertainment, cultural performances, and festive activities. From 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy a mesmerizing lion dance, a vibrant dragon parade, and musical and dance showcases. Don’t forget to snap a picture at one of the themed photo ops. Location: 1100 S. Hayes St., Arlington
Celebrate Lunar New Year in Arlington!
Arlington offers plenty of ways to ring in the Year of the Snake, whether you’re enjoying a scoop of festive ice cream, watching a thrilling lion dance, or making special memories with family and friends. Don’t miss out on these exciting events—mark your calendar and welcome the Lunar New Year in style!
