Lunar New Year at the L.A. Zoo
February 21 & 22
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Free with paid Zoo admission and for L.A. Zoo members
Join us in celebrating the “Year of the Horse!”
The Los Angeles Zoo is thrilled to welcome members of our Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and all Angelenos to enjoy special activities and performances honoring the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse.
Lunar New Year is a festival rich in tradition that occurs on the first day of a new year in the lunisolar calendar, a calendar that is based on the cycles of the moon’s phases and the sun’s position. Depending on the position of the moon, Lunar New Year falls on a different day in January or February. This year, it’s on February 17.
Special Programming at the L.A. Zoo
All activities will be held at the Zoo’s Treetops Terrace
During the Zoo’s Lunar New Year celebration, we’re spotlighting the Grevy’s zebra and other animals of the Chinese zodiac.
- Traditional Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese dance performances by Asian Arts Talents Foundation at 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:45 p.m., and 2:45 p.m.
- Calligraphy demonstration and Chinese Fan decorating from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Wall of Well Wishes (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) – share your hopes and dreams for the New Year by adding them to the Wall of Well Wishes. Volunteers will be on hand during designated hours to provide cards and pens.
- Special Animal Feedings
- Education Stations (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Year of the Horse photo op
- Zoo-diac Tour (Zoo-wide) – Many animals of the 12-year Chinese zodiac can be found at the Zoo! View and take a photo of the Zoo-diac Tour map in the Zoo’s Entry Plaza and at Treetops Terrace to find them all during your visit.
Exclusive Member Area
Special members’ activities will be held in the Rose Garden Picnic Area
February 21 & 22
10 A.M. – 4 P.M.
This year, the Zoo is excited to offer an exclusive area dedicated to members at all levels. This area will feature themed activities created by Los Angeles-based outdoor education company Bewilder, which blends art, games, storytelling, and outdoor gear to introduce families to the mental and physical benefits of being outside.
No reservations are required to enter, just a valid membership code. For more information, contact the membership office at membership@zoo.lacity.org.
About Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year is a festival rich in tradition that occurs on the first day of a new year in the lunisolar calendar, a calendar that is based on the cycles of the moon’s phases and the sun’s position. Depending on the position of the moon, Lunar New Year falls on a different day in January or February. This year, it’s on February 17.
Lunar New Year is celebrated in many east Asian countries, including China, Singapore, South Korea, Tibet, and Vietnam. Typical festivities last for multiple days, sometimes as long as 15 days depending on the culture. It is traditionally a time for food, festivities, and family gatherings.
Get Social With Us!
Share your Lunar New Year photos and videos using #LunarNewYear and #LAZoo on social media and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.