Lunar New Year — also called Spring Festival — is a lively, two‑week celebration that begins on February 17, 2026, ushering in the vibrant Year of the Horse, and culminates with the Lantern Festival on March 3. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to explore new traditions, enjoy creative activities together, and bring a little cultural magic to late winter in the Hamptons.

What Makes the Year of the Horse Special?

In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse symbolizes energy, adventure, independence, and forward motion — qualities kids can explore in everyday life. Parents can encourage children to set a “Year of the Horse” goal, like channeling their energy into a new activity or skill, practicing courage in small ways, and volunteering for a charitable cause to make a positive impact.

Fun Crafts to Do at Home

Bring Lunar New Year into your living room with craft‑based activities that are easy for even younger kids:

Paper Lanterns with a Horse Twist
Cut bright red and gold construction paper into strips or panels for a classic lantern shape. Fold and glue or staple the paper into a lantern, leaving space at the top to attach a handle. Decorate with horse silhouettes, stickers, or the number “2026” to celebrate the Year of the Horse. Add a ribbon or string at the bottom for extra flair, then hang your lanterns around the house for a festive display.

Zodiac Horse Masks & Puppets
Create colorful popsicle stick puppets or paper bag masks for the zodiac animals — including the horse, rat, snake, and others. Kids can decorate each animal with googly eyes, yarn, and markers, then use them to act out “The Great Race,” the traditional Chinese legend where the animals compete to earn their spots in the zodiac calendar. This adds a playful storytelling element and helps children explore qualities like energy, courage, and determination.

Calligraphy and Lucky Decorations
Use red paper to make simple “福” (fú, meaning “good luck”) signs or banners to hang in windows or doorways. Even if you spell letters in English, talking about the symbolism adds depth and curiosity.

DIY Red Envelopes
Traditionally, red envelopes (hongbao) are given to kids during Lunar New Year for good luck. Families can make their own envelopes and fill them with notes, stickers, money, or small surprises to share wishes for the year ahead.

Celebrate with Food

Food is a big part of Lunar New Year, with many dishes symbolizing something special. For instance, Chinese dumplings represent wealth and family unity. Set up a station with wrappers, veggies, and simple fillings, letting little hands help fold and form. Or try longevity noodles — chang shou mian — which represent a long, healthy life.

Events You Can Enjoy

While major parades and festivals aren’t typical in the Hamptons, but there are a few within an hour’s drive:

LIC Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb. 17–Mar. 3, 2026)
Long Island City hosts a two‑week celebration honoring the Year of the Fire Horse with 50+ community events, including cultural performances, special menus, themed promotions, and family‑friendly activities.

Lunar New Year Celebration at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum & Reichert Planetarium
On February 21, 2026, Centerport’s Vanderbilt Museum invites families to enjoy lucky foods, learn the art of paper lantern making, try your hand at Chinese calligraphy, and hope for a prosperous future with a few traditional good‑luck crafts.

Lunar New Year Program – Year of the Horse (Feb. 21, 2026)
At Connetquot River State Park Preserve in Oakdale, a family-friendly program includes a brisk nature walk, storytelling, and a presentation on Long Island’s equestrian history, plus traditional Lunar New Year‑themed snacks.

Wishing Your Family a Creative Year of Momentum

Shine encourages families to explore traditions, get creative with crafts, and savor time together this Lunar New Year — because winter blues are no match for learning and celebration. For more inspiration, drop by the Shine Studio in Bridgehampton or contact us to learn more about our Lunar New Year activities.