The Lunar New Year is upon us. As revelers celebrate the Year of the Rabbit Sunday, Jan. 22, 2023-Thursday, Feb. 9, 2024 — or the Year of the Cat, depending on cultural traditions — several free, local festivals will be hoppin’ (and the cat’s meow).

🏮 This Saturday and Sunday, the 2023 SD Lunar New Year Festival at Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park in City Heights will showcase traditional performances and cultural exhibitions.

🏮 Also this Sunday, the Chinese New Year Festival at the House of China at Balboa Park will feature Chinese food, lion dances, and crafts.

A past Chinese New Year celebration at the House of China in Balboa Park. | Photo via @sotnwaffle

🏮 On Friday, Jan. 27-Sunday, Jan. 29, the San Diego Tết Festival at Mira Mesa Community Park will celebrate the Vietnamese tradition (and Year of the Cat) with live entertainment, vendors, and a pageant.

🏮 On Saturday, Jan. 28, 12-4 p.m., head to the San Diego Central Library for the Korean American Heritage & Lunar New Year Celebration and enjoy themed crafts, dance performances, and other activities.

🏮 On Saturday, Feb. 4, and Sunday, Feb. 5, the 40th annual San Diego Chinese New Year Fair will return to J Street and Third Avenue in downtown San Diego with entertainment, art, and food vendors.