San Diego Hosts Chinese New Year Fair
San Diego is hosting its annual Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair today, February 28. The event, organized by KPBS Public Media, will feature traditional food and a range of cultural performances.
This year's celebration is the 43rd annual iteration of the fair, a tradition hosted by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA) since 1983. The event has become one of the largest and most popular celebrations of its kind in the city. The fair takes place in what was historically San Diego's Chinatown, now known as the Asian Pacific Thematic District, centered around Third Avenue and J Street. This two-day free event is a cornerstone of cultural celebration in the city, drawing visitors from across Southern California. The year 2026 marks the Year of the Horse, and the fair's theme is "When ten thousand horses move as one, everyone rejoices." This theme emphasizes harmony, unity, and the collective strength of the community. The horse symbolizes strength, vitality, and freedom in Chinese mythology. Attendees can expect a wide array of cultural performances, including traditional lion and dragon dances, kung fu demonstrations, classical music, and dance troupes. The fair also features numerous food vendors offering authentic Chinese and Asian street food, alongside craft booths and activities for children. This downtown street fair is one of several Lunar New Year celebrations in San Diego. Other notable events include a festival at Balboa Park hosted by the House of China and the San Diego Tết Festival celebrating the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. The various communities often coordinate their large festivals to take place on different weekends so residents can attend multiple celebrations.
