Lunar New Year 2026 at Vincennes Racecourse: dragon dance, gourmet treats, and free activities

Drums, dragons, and hooves pounding in rhythm: the Chinese New Year is setting up shop at the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes on Sunday, February 22, 2026. This lively, free celebration embraces new beginnings, blending lunar traditions with the thrill of horse racing for a spectacle as meaningful as it is spectacular — all the more so since 2026 marks the Year of the Horse!

From the start, the day kicks off with the Flag Ceremony: raising the flag, singing the national anthem, and taking the official photo, setting the stage for a full cultural immersion. Throughout the day, the Lunar New Year is celebrated through dragon and lion dances, traditional costumes, Chinese music, and a cultural exhibition showcasing the rich traditions and festive spirit of this major celebration.

The celebration continues with a grandstand lineup featuring 9 live harness racing events. Amidst the adrenaline and excitement, spectators gather for the highlight of the day: the Prix de Paris, the marathon race. To go beyond being a mere spectator, visitors can join guided tours of the stables to get up close to the horses before they hit the track. For an even more immersive experience, hopping aboard the follow-up bus offers a front-row view of the race in action.

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Designed for all ages, the Chinese New Year celebration also offers a variety of free experiences: pony rides, a carousel, photo opportunities with Troty, virtual reality adventures, and a booth at Petit Sulky.

Finally, no Lunar New Year celebration is complete without a feast! A gastronomic village sets up in the Grand Hall, offering steamed dumplings, sweet and sour pork, Cantonese fried rice, spring rolls, and dim sum to share.

This event is part of the World Celebrations program in Paris-Vincennes. Free admission with a valid ticket, which can be downloaded through the ticketing portal.

A new year begins... with the brightest of beginnings in the 12th arrondissement of Paris!