Chinese New Year 2026 in Prato

Under the sign of the Fire Horse, Prato is preparing to experience one of the most well-attended and recognizable events in Tuscany: the Chinese New Year, a celebration that reflects the multicultural soul of the city and renders it a destination able to delight.

Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is celebrated by millions of people around the world. The beginning of the new year has no fixed date but coincides with the second new moon after the winter solstice and, according to the Gregorian calendar, falls between January 21 and February 19.
February 17 marks the official start of the Year of the Fire Horse, a symbol of energy, passion, movement and change. 
The festivities are spread over several days, with numerous initiatives taking place around the city.

Among the most anticipated moments is the Lion Dance, one of the most iconic traditions of the celebration where dancers enliven the streets by moving large colorful lions to the rhythm of music. The lion, a symbol of strength and courage, is considered the harbinger of happiness and protection for the new year.

The official kickoff to Chinese New Year 2026 is scheduled for Monday, February 16 at 4:00 pm, when the ringing of the bell at the Pu Hua Buddhist Temple will start celebrations, in perfect alignment with midnight in Beijing according to the Chinese lunar calendar.

On Sunday 22 will come the highly anticipated parade, culminating in the city center with the great dragons and the spectacular Lion Dance.

This is complemented by a calendar rich in events, exhibitions and guided tours.

The Chinese New Year program:

• Monday 16 from 4:00 pm: Bell ringing and Buddhist ritual
• Saturday 21 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm: Dragon Parade and Lion Dance at the Macrolotto 1 and 2
• Sunday 22 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm: Dragon Parade and Lion Dance in the historic center