Dining

The Lunar New Year is an event worth celebrating, and in Houston there's no shortage of ways to celebrate. The Year of the Rat is one for new experiences, making it the perfect time for those who don’t observe to enjoy with other cultures. To make sure your luck lasts past January 25th and stays the whole year, focus on eating foods for the season. Dumplings are a staple, so experience them with the lively hustle and bustle of dim sum. Head over to Kim Son, Ocean's Palace or Fung's Kitchen for an experience complete with carts. Expect a crowd, especially on February 8th at Fung’s for a celebration for the whole family. If you celebrate the Vietnamese Tết, then get yourself to Jenni's Noodle House or Mai's Restaurant for some classic Vietnamese cuisine, with options for vegetarians and vegans. If you want a fully vegan, pan-asian spread, from noodles to sesame balls, then head to Pepper Tree for their scrumptious buffet. Or, for a touch of Texas with tradition, try Blood Bro.'s BBQ for a blend of asian-fusion barbecue.

Shopping

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Fresh fruit is a traditional choice, and is said to help bring luck and happiness throughout the year. Grab some golden citrus to match the Year of the Gold Rat in Chinatown where you'll find a variety of places to eat, shop, and stay. One popular shopping destination is Hong Kong City Mall, filled with dozens of restaurants, unique shops, and more. At its heart is the Hong Kong Food Market, a great place to grab some fresh flowers and produce. Farther west of Houston, Katy Asia Town also offers an impressive assortment of shops, restaurants and things to do. To celebrate Korean New Year, pick up the ingredients to cook Tteokguk or Jeon at the Korean-focused H Mart.

Cultural Events

If educational engagement is your focus, there are plenty of options with Asian Heritage Tours. Watch the Chinese Cultural Showcase Performance on January 16th, or explore with the Best of Asiatown Bus Tour on February 1st. Get involved with the Asia Society Texas Center at Family Day: Lunar New Year on January 25th. Take in the Texas Lunar Festival on January 25th and fully experience and celebrate all the cultures that will be ringing in the Year of the Rat. For an immersive experience, Celebrate Chinese New Year 2020 at Lucky Land, with a range of activities from rickshaws to red envelopes. Most importantly, whether your family is blood or chosen, make a point to celebrate with the people that matter.