The 2026 Fire Horse Year (Year of the Horse) New York Lunar New Year Parade is set to take place on February 21st (Saturday, the fifth day of the Lunar New Year) in the bustling Flushing center of New York’s largest Chinese community, attracting much attention. On February 13th, the organizers, the “Flushing Chinese (Business) Association,” held a press conference announcing that all preparations are in place and welcoming people from all walks of life to come and enjoy the joyous, harmonious, and celebratory Lunar New Year festivities.
This is the largest Lunar New Year parade celebration in the Eastern United States, marking the 30th anniversary of the parade. Parade committee chair Du Bide and commander Wang Neng introduced that this year’s parade will be larger in scale than the previous year, with a 20% increase in participating groups compared to previous years, with nearly 100 groups, 50 floats, and various vehicles joining.
State and city officials, representatives of the community, New York City Police Department officials, and leaders of community organizations and institutions attended the press conference to congratulate the Flushing Lunar New Year Parade, which started in 1996, on its 30th anniversary, expressing wishes for a successful and fulfilling event.
New York State Senator Toby Stavisky noted that she has witnessed the Flushing Lunar New Year Parade grow in influence over the past 30 years, stating, “I believe this year’s parade will be even more spectacular. The parade’s scale grows year by year, mirroring the vibrant development of Flushing, which is constantly evolving and rejuvenating.”
New York State Assemblyman Ron Kim presented a resolution from the New York State Assembly celebrating the Lunar New Year, describing the parade as one of the most splendid Lunar New Year celebrations in the United States. He emphasized the contribution of the parade to the community and culture, highlighting how the Lunar New Year has become a tradition in New York, celebrating a holiday that has become mainstream in America, with everyone present deserving credit.
Councilwoman Sandra Ung expressed her pride in witnessing the diverse array of activities in Flushing, emphasizing that the Lunar New Year Parade showcases the unity of the Asian community, representing a cultural celebration that demonstrates the pride of the Asian community in being rooted in America.
Councilwoman Vickie Paladino shared her experience of walking in the parade procession each year since becoming councilwoman, witnessing the transformation of Flushing over the years. She highlighted the richness and depth of Asian culture, noting the significant contributions of Asians to America, such as the Chinese laborers who helped build the first transcontinental railroad in the country, all united under the banner of the American flag.
Kevin Coleman, the commanding officer of the 109th Precinct of the New York City Police Department, assured that a significant number of police officers, including uniformed officers, anti-terrorism units, traffic police, undercover officers, and auxiliary police, will be mobilized to ensure the safety, smooth operation, and joyful and harmonious atmosphere of the parade.
The parade is scheduled to commence promptly at 11 a.m. on February 21st (Saturday), starting from the entrance of the 109th Precinct on Union Street, continuing through Union Street, turning onto Sanford Avenue, then onto Main Street, and finally turning onto 39th Avenue before concluding in front of the “Queens Crossing” building.
Community liaison officer Huang Lingqin of the 109th Precinct explained the road closures for the parade day: Union Street (between Northern Boulevard and Roosevelt Avenue) will be closed before 8:30 a.m. to prepare for floats and assembly of the procession; the parade route will be closed from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (businesses needing deliveries should ensure they arrive before 10 a.m.).
Huang Lingqin also reminded that bus stops in the Flushing center area will be relocated to Bowne Street (near Barclay Ave.), the junction of Northern Boulevard and Main Street, and near Skyview on Roosevelt Avenue. Notices will be posted by the MTA at bus stops.
Representatives from Congressman Meng Zhaowen, State Senator Liu Chunyi, New York City Comptroller Li Wen, and Queens District Attorney Richards also attended the press conference, extending their warm Lunar New Year greetings to the Asian community and expressing anticipation and strong support for the upcoming parade.