Celebrate the Year of the Horse: Sheffield Lunar New Year 2026 Guide
The vibrant energy of the Lunar New Year is returning to South Yorkshire, and 2026 is set to be the biggest celebration yet! As Sheffield prepares to welcome the Year of the Horse, the city centre will transform into a hub of cultural performances, dragon dances, and mouth-watering street food.
What’s On: Sheffield Lunar New Year 2026
This year’s festivities are more than just a weekend event—it’s a week-long city-wide celebration from February 16th to February 25th, 2026.
The Main Event: Peace Gardens Festival
- Dates: Saturday 21st – Sunday 22nd February 2026
- Location: Peace Gardens (Just a short walk from our hotel)
- Highlights: * The Eye-Dotting Ceremony: On Sunday at the Town Hall, watch the lions “awaken” to start the parade.
- World-Class Acrobats: Featuring the internationally acclaimed Acrobatic Lion Dance team from Foshan, China.
- Cultural Market: Authentic street food, calligraphy workshops, and traditional crafts.
Gala Spectacular at The Octagon
On Wednesday, 18th February, don’t miss the ticketed Gala show. Expect a breathtaking evening of Chinese martial arts, dance, and acrobatics, with proceeds supporting the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.
Why Stay at Best Western Sheffield City Hotel?
When looking for Sheffield City Centre hotels, location is everything. Our hotel is situated on Blonk Street, overlooking the River Don, providing a peaceful retreat that is still only minutes away from the festival’s main stages.
- Unbeatable Location: We are one of the best places to stay near Sheffield City Centre, located less than 0.5 miles from the Peace Gardens, Crucible Theatre, and Ponds Forge.
- Modern Comfort: Enjoy spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, perfect for families or solo travellers visiting for the festivities.
- Easy Access: Only a 10-minute walk from Sheffield Train Station and 10 minutes from the M1, making us a top choice for those traveling from across the UK.
- On-site Dining: Start your day with a full breakfast at The Quays Restaurant or relax with a drink at Bar Blonk after a day of celebrating.
Plan Your Visit to Sheffield
With thousands of visitors expected for the Sheffield Lunar New Year 2026, the best hotels near Sheffield City Centre will book up fast. Whether you’re here for the “Lion Meets the Dragon” parade or the delicious food stalls in the Peace Gardens, staying central ensures you won’t miss a moment of the magic.
Book Your Sheffield City Centre Stay Today
Don’t leave your accommodation to chance. Secure your room at the Best Western Sheffield City Hotel and enjoy the best of the Lunar New Year right on your doorstep.
