The magic of the Lunar New Year gallops back into Las Vegas with the 15th Annual Chinese New Year in the Desert™, set to dazzle locals and visitors February 19–21, 2026. Recognized by Forbes as one of the “8 Great Places to Celebrate Chinese New Year,” this citywide festival will once again deliver unforgettable performances, flavorful culinary experiences, and vibrant cultural programming in honor of the Year of the Horse.

As our nation observes America’s 250th anniversary, CNY in the Desert proudly celebrates this historic milestone. The festival echoes America250’s mission to honor the contributions of all Americans and to weave diverse narratives into Our American Story. For more than a decade, this high-profile cultural event has showcased the richness of Asian Pacific American heritage and demonstrated a profound, long-standing commitment to celebrating the mosaic of American identity.

What began in 2012 on Fremont Street has since grown into one of the largest Lunar New Year festivals in the United States, expanding across iconic Las Vegas destinations including The Palazzo Theatre, Palette Tea Lounge, Downtown Las Vegas, and Downtown Container Park. The 2026 festivities are made possible by the support of JAMBA at Harry Reid International Airport, Uehara Financial & Longevity Planning, East West Bank, Diversity Gaming Solutions, the City of Las Vegas, and Golden Catalyst, LLC.

2026 Lunar New Year Highlights:

Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026: “The Art of Illusions” with Shin Lim
The Palazzo Theatre | 7:30 p.m.

Ring in the New Year with world-renowned magician Shin Lim. Known for his jaw-dropping sleight of hand and mentalism, Lim’s brand-new, family-friendly show will leave you breathless. Nearly one million fans have witnessed his magic and now it's your turn. Tickets: Indigo Reservations

Friday, Feb. 20, 2026: 15th Annual Lunar New Year Gala Dinner
Palette Tea Lounge | 6p.m.

Hosted by JAMBA inside Harry Reid International Airport, this elegant dinner will honor James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Chef Martin Yan, paired with premium libations sponsored by Rémy Cointreau. The evening will also celebrate community leaders Tony Gladney, Janet Chao, and Celina DiLullo for their dedication and service to our community. Tickets: 15th Annual CNY in the Desert Gala Dinner at Palette Tea Lounge Tickets, Fri, Feb 20, 2026 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026: Annual Spring Festival Parade
Downtown Fremont East | 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

Presented by Uehara Financial & Longevity Planning, this vibrant parade is free to the public and features traditional lion and dragon dances, ornate floats, and colorful cultural costumes. Limited bleacher seating is available at 8th & Fremont, so arrive early to secure your spot.

Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026: Parade-After Party & Dance-for-Fitness
Downtown Container Park | 12–3 p.m.

The celebration continues with a free, family-friendly festival featuring martial arts, live performances, hands-on children’s crafts, and a high-energy dance fitness session led by local favorites Nik and Jee. All activities are free and open to the public.

Full schedule and details, visit CNY in the Desert.

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About Chinese New Year in the Desert™
Founded in 2012, Chinese New Year in the Desert™ is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to celebrating Asian Pacific American and all cultures through vibrant, inclusive Lunar New Year festivities in Las Vegas. Its mission is to grow into the largest Lunar New Year festival in the United States, fostering cultural awareness, community engagement, and shared joy.

About Golden Catalyst
Golden Catalyst, LLC (金滙有限公司) is a dynamic multicultural event planning, public relations, and marketing agency. Since its founding in 2008, the company has specialized in creating high-impact cultural festivals, business summits, and conventions across the United States, delivering experiences that connect communities, brands, and audiences nationwide.

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