Chinese New Year in Bangkok
Bangkok transforms into a sea of red and gold during the lunar festivities. Families gather to honor ancestors and welcome a prosperous new year. This period brings joy, loud firecrackers, and incredible food to every corner. Visitors experience a unique blend of traditions and vibrant street life throughout the city. This guide helps you navigate the best events and dining spots. Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Bangkok with our detailed travel tips.
Moreover, visitors can experience unique traditions and lively street life across Bangkok. From cultural rituals to festive dining, the atmosphere feels truly special. This guide will help you explore the best events, attractions, and restaurants. Discover the magic of the Chinese New Year in Bangkok with practical travel tips.
The History of the Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year remains one of the most important festivals in Asia. People also call it the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year. Its history dates back thousands of years to ancient agrarian times. Farmers celebrated the end of winter and the start of spring. They prayed for good harvests and successful seasons ahead.
Ancient legends also play a massive role in this celebration. One famous story features a terrifying monster named Nian. This beast would attack helpless villages at the start of every year. Villagers eventually discovered that Nian feared the color red and loud noises. Therefore, people began hanging red lanterns and lighting firecrackers. These traditions continue today to ward off bad luck and evil spirits.
The festival emphasizes family unity and deep respect for elders. Relatives travel long distances to share a massive reunion dinner. They exchange gifts and wish each other health and wealth. Over time, the celebration spread from China to many other countries. Bangkok hosts some of the largest celebrations outside of China itself.
When is the Chinese New Year 2026
In 2026, the official Chinese New Year Day falls on Tuesday, February 17. This year marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse. The Horse symbolizes energy, passion, and rapid progress in life. People born in this year often possess great leadership qualities. The lunar calendar determines the exact date of the festival each year.
Therefore, the date changes annually between January and February. Most celebrations in Bangkok start several days before the official date. You can expect the peak of festivities from February 14 to February 19. Many shops and restaurants offer special deals during this week.
Things to do on Chinese New Year in Bangkok
Bangkok offers many activities to celebrate the Lunar New Year. First, you should visit a traditional Chinese temple to pray. Wat Mangkon Kamalawat in Chinatown is the most popular choice. People light incense and offer oranges to the gods for luck. They also pay respect to their ancestors through ancient rituals.
Next, you must wear red clothing to join the spirit of the holiday. Thai-Chinese locals believe that red brings good fortune and happiness. You will see many people in beautiful qipaos and silk shirts. Furthermore, watching a dragon or lion dance is a must. These performers move to the rhythmic beat of drums and cymbals. They often perform in front of shops to bring success to businesses.
Finally, do not forget to collect or give red envelopes. These envelopes, called “Ang Pao” or “Hongbao,” contain lucky money. Elders give them to children and younger relatives as a blessing. It is a time of generosity and great joy for every generation.
Top spots to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Bangkok
Bangkok comes alive during the Chinese New Year with vibrant colors, cultural performances, and festive energy across the city. From the iconic streets of Yaowarat to luxury shopping malls and stylish city hotels, there are many places to experience this special celebration. Whether you love street food, dazzling decorations, or comfortable city escapes, these locations offer some of the best ways to enjoy Chinese New Year in Bangkok
Yaowarat Road: The Heart of Bangkok’s Chinese New Year
Yaowarat: Yaowarat Road is one of the best places to celebrate the Bangkok Chinese New Year. This district becomes a pedestrian-only zone during the main festival days. Huge red arches welcome visitors to the bustling streets. You will find endless food stalls selling traditional sweets and snacks.
Important Update: All official festivities on Yaowarat Road are getting cancelled from February 17-18 due to the mourning period. However, travel can go and take a picture of decorative lighting with the theme “Ride the Fortune, Share the Future” which will be displayed from the Royal Commemoration Arch to the Chalemburi Intersection from February 7 to March 1, 2026, between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM.
Experience the Chinese New Year in Bangkok’s Modern Shopping Malls
Top Shopping Malls: Many modern shopping malls also host grand celebrations. Siam Paragon creates luxury displays with intricate flower arrangements and gold statues. ICONSIAM offers a stunning riverside celebration along the Chao Phraya River. You can watch magnificent fireworks over the water on special nights. These malls provide air-conditioned comfort for those who want to avoid the heat.
Mercure Bangkok Surawong: A Stylish Way to Celebrate Chinese New Year
Mercure Bangkok Surawong: If you’re looking for a central and stylish base, choose Mercure Bangkok Surawong. This hotel sits near the vibrant Silom and Sathorn districts. It offers easy access to Chinatown via public transport or a short taxi ride. The hotel combines modern comfort with local heritage designs. It is one of the best places to celebrate the Chinese New Year in Bangkok.
Dinner at the Best Chinese restaurants in Bangkok
Dining is the most essential part of any lunar celebration. Families seek out the best Chinese restaurant for family to share a feast. Yu Her Bao, located at Mercure Bangkok Surawong, stands out this year. The restaurant offers a sophisticated setting for festive gatherings. Their chefs prepare authentic Cantonese dishes with a modern twist.
Emperor Dim Sum Celebration
Yu Her Bao presents exclusive dining promotions from February 14 to 17, 2026. These offers cater to different group sizes and preferences.
Emperor Dim Sum Celebration
- 14 – 17 February 2026
- Price: THB 999 net per person
Highlights:
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- Enjoy unlimited BBQ red pork and BBQ roasted duck
- Tables of 4 guests receive a complimentary Yee Sang set
- Groups of 5 or more get a Yee Sang set and Pork Knuckle with Mantou
- Order a special Peking Duck set for only THB 999 net
| GET OFFERS |
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Happy Lunar Celebration
Happy Lunar Celebration
- Dates: 14 – 17 February 2026
- Price: THB 25,000 and THB 30,000 net per set
Highlights:
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- This is an ideal choice for families and large groups
- It features a premium 10-course set menu
- Guests dine in an exclusive private VIP room
- The room accommodates 10 to 12 guests comfortably
- Price includes Chinese tea, chrysanthemum tea, and drinking water
| GET OFFERS |
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À La Carte Promotion
À La Carte Promotion
- Dates: 14 – 17 February 2026
Highlights:
- Enjoy a generous 30% discount on all à la carte menu items
- This is perfect for guests who want to choose their favorite dishes
| Make A Reservation |
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Celebrating the Lunar New Year in Bangkok allows you to witness a beautiful cultural fusion. Start your journey in Chinatown to see the vibrant parades and street food. Visit the majestic temples to pray for a lucky and prosperous year. Then, treat your family to a magnificent 10-course meal at Yu Her Bao at Mercure Bangkok Surawong. Whether you want street food or fine dining, Bangkok has it all.