Every winter, at the beginning of the year, the Chinese New Year in Montreal brings the heart of Chinatown to life with the sound of drums. Lion dances, calligraphy, music, and lucky red decorations: the Lunar New Year is one of the city's most colorful celebrations and a wonderful opportunity to discover Montreal's Chinese culture and community.

Chinese New Year 2027: What Date?

The Lunar New Year follows the lunar calendar, so its date changes every year. In 2027, it falls on Saturday, February 6, 2027, marking the Year of the Goat, following the Year of the Horse in 2026 (and the Year of the Snake in 2025).

In Montreal, the festivities usually take place around this date, often over a weekend. The 2027 celebration dates in Chinatown have not yet been announced: keep an eye on the website and Facebook page of Asie en Fête, the organization that hosts them.

Festivities in Chinatown

The non-profit organization Asie en Fête brings the Lunar New Year to life in Montreal's Chinatown. In 2026, the festivities took place on February 21 and 22, around Sun-Yat-Sen Square. The program included:

  • Lion dances in the streets of the neighborhood, starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday;
  • Cultural performances, music, and traditional costumes;
  • Calligraphy demonstrations;
  • Interactive games and festive decorations for the whole family.

Instead of a traditional parade, the 2026 edition focused on strolls through the neighborhood. New this year: a Chinatown passport, with participation from about forty merchants, invited the public to explore the shops. The Place-d'Armes metro station is nearby.

Other Lunar New Year Celebrations in Montreal

The festivities aren't limited to Chinatown. In 2026, Tourisme Montréal also highlighted:

  • The Chinese New Year Gala (Gala Phénix) at the salle Wilfrid-Pelletier at Place des Arts on February 15;
  • Free activities at the Centre Eaton de Montréal, from February 9 to 22, featuring lion dances and a red ribbon wishing arch;
  • Celebrations at Royalmount, from February 16 to 22.

The program changes every year: check with each venue for details.

Traditions and Lucky Dishes of Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is also celebrated at the table. Dumplings are shaped like ingots and symbolize wealth; fish, served whole, represents abundance; long noodles, never cut, signify longevity. Another well-known tradition is giving red envelopes containing money as wishes for prosperity. It's also the perfect time to try the restaurants and bakeries in Chinatown.

Practical Information

  • Lunar New Year 2027 Date: February 6, 2027 (Year of the Goat).
  • Main Location: Montreal's Chinatown, Sun-Yat-Sen Square.
  • Access: Place-d'Armes metro station nearby.
  • Program and Festivity Dates: Asie en Fête website.
  • Tip: Dress warmly and arrive early for the lion dances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese New Year in Montreal

What activities are there for Chinese New Year in Montreal?

Lion dances, performances, calligraphy, and games in Chinatown, and other activities at Centre Eaton or Place des Arts.

When is Chinese New Year 2027?

The Lunar New Year falls on February 6, 2027. The celebration dates in Montreal will be announced by the organizers.

What events take place in Montreal's Chinatown?

Montreal's Chinatown hosts several events throughout the year, including the Lunar New Year at the beginning of the year. For the up-to-date calendar, check the Asie en Fête and Tourisme Montréal websites.

Also Discover

Check out our pages on Lunar New Year – Chinatown and Chinese New Year Gala in Canada, or read our article on the Asian Night Market.