Lunar New Year: giant mythical creatures set up in front of the Musée Guimet

The Musée Guimet is getting ready to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a weekend of entertainment for the whole family, from January 31 to February 2, 2025. This traditional event celebrates the transition from the Year of the Dragon to that of the Wooden Snake, particularly appreciated by the Chinese, who see it as an observant, intelligent, mysterious and wise animal.

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and China, artist Jiang Qiong Er has installed monumental, poetic installations in the heart of the museum, the"Guardians of Time". For Lunar New Year, four of them will be installed on the Place d'Iéna, emerging from their caves to become giant lanterns, lit from within, as night falls.

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Lunar New Year – Chinese New Year celebrations in Paris and Île-de-France 2026: parades and festivities
The Lunar New Year, celebrated in Vietnam (Tết Festival), South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines — commonly known as Chinese New Year — falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. However, festivities kick off before and continue after that date. This year, we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse. Looking for tips to make the most of the celebrations? From parades and performances to top dining spots, here’s a roundup of the best ideas for honoring this vibrant holiday. [Read more]

Twelve statues of the mythical creatures - Authenticity, Fraternity, Inclusion, Peace, Equality, Benevolence, Time, Exploration, Bravery, Nature, Wisdom and Freedom - also appear on the museum's façade. Like a message of love for the coming year, Nature, Freedom, Wisdom and Benevolence are unveiled and made accessible to all on the museum's forecourt, for a magical atmosphere at the end of the day.

Discover the full Lunar New Year program at the Musée Guimet

Lunar New Year 2025: a festive and cultural weekend at the Musée Guimet
The Musée Guimet invites you to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a weekend of festivities on February 1 and 2, 2025. Discover the program, including workshops, guided tours, nocturnal visits and encounters. [Read more]