Chinese New Year–Related Activities and Sights in Manila for Families

Looking to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year with the community? We’ve got you covered! We’ve listed the best activities and must-visit spots in Manila to ensure you and your family enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

The highlight of Chinatown during the Lunar New Year is the Grand Parade, typically sponsored by major Filipino-Chinese organizations. This event celebrates the rich history and vibrant present of the Filipino-Chinese community, featuring talented artists, spectacular costumes, traditional dances, and of course, magnificent floats!

This cultural procession traditionally takes place on the last weekend before (or the first weekend after) Lunar New Year. The parade kicks off at Plaza Santa Cruz, winds through Reina Regente, and concludes at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz, where additional holiday celebrations are held.

The ultimate place to be in Binondo is Ongpin Street. When people say “go to Binondo,” they mean Ongpin! As the heart of Filipino-Chinese culture, this is where the most significant activities happen. It’s the best spot to catch traditional lion and dragon dances, and it’s a perfect opportunity for your family to offer angbao (red envelopes) to the performers.

During the festival, Ongpin and its surrounding alleys are adorned with lanterns and banners. Street vendors line the pathways selling kumquats, tikoy, and dumplings. After soaking up the festivities, explore the local shops for authentic Chinese delicacies and souvenirs—many merchants offer seasonal goods and holiday discounts!

Located directly across from Binondo Church is Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz. Originally established during the Spanish era, it was renamed in honor of the first Filipino saint, who was born in Binondo.

The plaza serves as a central hub for community gatherings. During Chinese New Year, it hosts the main celebrations organized by the local government. One highlight is the Grand Opening Ceremony, which officially kicks off the festivities a few days before the Lunar New Year.

On the eve of the Lunar New Year, head to the riverbanks near the famous Binondo Bridge . A beautiful Lantern Festival and a vibrant fireworks display are held here to welcome the new year with a bang.

After enjoying the dances and street festivities, immerse yourself further in the culture by visiting local landmarks:

Also known as the Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz, this church holds special masses on the eve of the Lunar New Year and on the day itself.

Whether you and your family practice Catholicism or not, attending mass in this chapel is a perfect example of how Chinese and Filipino cultures have been intertwined through the Catholic religion, and will help the children see and appreciate the Fil-Chi identity more clearly.

For a change of pace, visit this prominent Buddhist temple. They organize events during the Chinese New Year such as blessing ceremonies, incense offerings, and meditation sessions. It’s a peaceful sanctuary where you can pause, reflect, and even pray amidst the holiday excitement.

If you can’t get enough of the cultural performances, you’re in luck! Students from local Filipino-Chinese schools in Binondo showcase their talents at Lucky Chinatown Mall on February 14.

The mall also hosts its own version of the famous Binondo food crawl, gathering various popular food vendors in one convenient location. Additionally, on February 17, the local government will host a grand cultural parade featuring floats from local merchants and institutions.

For those seeking indoor festivities, Shangri-La Plaza is a fantastic choice. If your family enjoys watching movies, check out the Spring Film Festival from February 15 to 17.

On February 16, the mall offers creative activities such as lantern-making and calligraphy, plus a New Year’s Eve fireworks display. On New Year’s Day, expect traditional lion and dragon dances, an art workshop, and a Guzheng (Chinese zither) harmonies concert.

Bring Cash: If you’re planning on going to Chinatown, many merchants and street vendors do not accept cards or cashless payments, so you’ll want to always be ready with good old cash!

Bring Fans: We all know how the heat index can put us all in a mood, so make sure you and your kids have fans (preferably mini wearable fans) and some sun protection such as caps or umbrellas to keep everyone fresh and sweat-free.

Stay Hydrated: Aside from bringing fans, ensure everyone brings their handy tumblers for safety.

Leave Your Valuables: All these community celebrations are sure to draw huge crowds, so see to it that you leave unnecessary valuables and large amounts of cash at home to keep yourself safe from pickpockets. And keep a close eye on your belongings.

Dress for Comfort: Wear breathable walking and comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of moving.

We hope you and your family have a wonderful time exploring the sights and sounds of the Lunar New Year in Manila!

Taguig Playpark offers free, safe fun for children and families.