Festivals and other events in celebration of Lunar New Year have started in Alexandria, kicking off the Year of the Horse.
Lunar New Year officially begins on Tuesday, Feb. 17, but some festivities are happening before then. The holiday is celebrated in Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean and numerous other Asian cultures, marking the start of the 15-day Spring Festival.
Here’s a look at some upcoming Lunar New Year events around Alexandria.
Del Ray Artisans Lunar New Year: Year of the Horse Art Exhibit
Feb. 6-28, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 6 p.m.; Fridays, noon to 9 p.m.
This free exhibit celebrates the traditions, stories, and cultural meaning of the horse in the zodiac. Del Ray Artisans says the exhibit showcases works honoring Lunar New Year’s origins authentically.
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Lunar New Year Storytime with Author Pat Tanumihardja
Saturday, Feb. 14, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Join for a storytime with author Pat Tanumihardja to celebrate Lunar New Year. Tanumihardja will read her new picture book, “Monkey’s Sweet Surprise: A Lunar New Year Mix-Up,” which is illustrated by Bonnie Lui. The story focuses on preparations for the Jade Empress’s grand banquet with a cast of zodiac animals. After the reading, Tanumihardja will share a pineapple tart treat. The event is geared toward children aged 3 to 8, but all ages are welcome. Attendance is free, and registrations are requested.
Old Town Books, 130 S. Royal Street
Lunar New Year’s Eve Reset and Virtual Workshop by Radiance Yoga
Monday, Feb. 16, 3-5 p.m.
Work toward a Lunar New Year reset through Kundalini yoga and meditation to promote balance, insight and renewal. The workshop center incorporates the Chinese zodiac’s Year of the Horse, which signifies vitality, independence and the pursuit of freedom. Meditation will be a key part of the workshop to allow participants to clear and focus their minds for the next year.
Virtual
Lunar New Year Foam Block Printing Workshop
Tuesday, Feb. 17, from 4-6 p.m.
Celebrate Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse with hands-on printmaking. Participants make soft foam printing plates inspired by the zodiac horse before inking and hand-printing their designs with brayers and water-based inks. Participants will take home multiple prints. No experience is needed, and all materials will be provided with registration. Adults and children ages 7 and up are encouraged to register.
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Tiny Lunar New Year Altars Workshop
Wednesday, Feb. 18, from 7-9 p.m.
Participants will create a mini space to honor ancestors, set intentions and welcome prosperity. Supplies are provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own additions like photos. Registration is encouraged by Feb. 14.
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Laurel Burch Inspired Horses Workshop
Sunday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to noon
This hands-on workshop inspired by artist Laurel Burch and Year of the Horse will explore color, pattern, and expressive design. Participants will create horse artwork using bold color, repeated patterns, strong outlines and metallic accents. Stencils and pattern references will be provided, and no prior art experience is needed. Adults, teens, and children ages 7 to 12 with an adult are welcome to register. The first 10 participants to register can take home a set of metallic markers after the workshop.
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Photo via Jason Leung/Unsplash.
Missing something notable? Drop us a line at [email protected].
