Chinese New Year 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA

Squirrel Hill neighborhood in the East End of Pittsburgh has historically been home to a large Asian diaspora, predominantly Chinese—no wonder the area has become Pittsburgh's epicenter of Chinese New Year festivities.

Chinese New Year Festivities in Squirrel Hill (TBA)

Just five minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill is a vibrant neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, lively business district, renowned educational institutions, and expansive public parks. Spanning over 1,100 acres (445.2 ha), its green spaces offer plenty for residents and visitors to enjoy.

One of Pittsburgh's most diverse areas, Squirrel Hill is home to numerous authentic eateries and hosts unique cultural events. The famous parade on Murray Avenue didn’t take place last year, but organizers are hopeful for its return in 2025. During Chinese New Year, festivities will begin at the Post Office Parklet with a "Dragon Enters the Gate" ceremony, followed by dragons visiting local businesses to exchange Hong Bao (red envelopes).

Greater Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Gala (January 25, 2025)

The Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Center celebrates the Lunar New Year with its annual event featuring CivilizASIAN – an American Lunar New Year Gala. Directed by award-winning violinist and producer Sean Gao, this vibrant performance brings together world-renowned artists, including the 6-WIRE World Music Ensemble, Erhu master Cathy Yang, Peking Opera stars Junqing Li and Yong-Hong Jia, magician Eric Chiu, and a blend of Chinese and Western instrumentalists, vocalists, and dancers.

Before the show, visitors can enjoy authentic Chinese street food, lantern riddles, face painting, paper cutting, calligraphy, and more. Tickets start at $34.

Spiral Symphony: A Chorus of Transformation and Renewal: The 28th Greater Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Fair and Show (January 26, 2025)

The 28th Greater Pittsburgh Lunar New Year Celebration, inspired by the Year of the Snake, brings a vibrant celebration of change and renewal. Hosted by the CASTP Organization with support from the Carnegie Museum of Art, this multicultural festival blends traditional Lunar New Year customs with global influences. Guests can enjoy captivating performances, hands-on activities, and the symbolic wisdom of the snake, celebrating new beginnings and unity.

The event will run at the Carnegie Music Hall Foyer from 11 am to 2:30 pm, followed by a concert starting at 2:30 pm. Tickets start from $20.