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 tourists from February 19–21, 2026. Recognized by Forbes as one of the "8 Great Places to Celebrate Chinese New Year," this citywide celebration promises unforgettable performances, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural experiences honoring the Year of the Horse.
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Chinese New Year in the Desert™ proudly honors the milestone by showcasing how cultural traditions from around the world have helped shape the American story. The festival reflects the enduring spirit of innovation, freedom, and community that defines the nation, bringing people together in celebration, just as Americans have done for generations. By ringing in the Year of the Horse in the heart of Las Vegas, this event connects the past to the present and reminds us that America's strength has always come from its ability to embrace new ideas while honoring shared values.
Chinese New Year in the Desert™ gives Nevadans a unique opportunity to reflect on the core principles of American democracy: freedom, personal responsibility, and patriotic unity through a vibrant cultural celebration. By bringing communities together in public spaces to celebrate tradition and heritage, the festival affirms the Constitution’s protections of free speech, assembly, and expression. It reinforces the idea that America’s strength comes from a shared commitment to liberty and the opportunity for all to contribute to the nation’s success. As Nevada joins the country in marking 250 years of independence, CNY in the Desert highlights how honoring tradition and celebrating community are central to the American spirit.
Chinese New Year in the Desert™ actively encourages Nevadans to engage in civic life by integrating voter education and volunteerism into its citywide celebration. During the annual Spring Festival Parade and Parade After-Party, attendees can visit informational booths focused on voter registration, ballot awareness, and civic resources, helping citizens better understand how to participate in the democratic process. For the past 14 years, the festival has relied on the time and talents of dedicated volunteers, from college students and Employee Resource Groups to nonprofit partners, who bring the event to life and exemplify the spirit of community service. By combining cultural celebration with civic engagement, CNY in the Desert inspires Nevadans to take an active role in shaping their communities and their future.