4th Annual Lunar New Year Festival
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, get ready to ignite your spirit! The Ridgewood Asian American and Pacific Islander Alliance (RAAPI) is back with its 4th Annual Lunar New Year Festival, and this year promises to be the most energetic yet.
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, the Ridgewood High School Campus Center will transform into a vibrant hub of culture, community, and “Fire Horse” energy. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, this is the family-friendly event of the season.
What is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in many Asian cultures, including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and more. It marks the first new moon of the lunar calendar and is a time for renewal, family reunions, and honoring ancestors. ### 2026: The Year of the Fire Horse
Every year in the 12-year Chinese Zodiac is represented by an animal and one of five elements. 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse—a rare combination that only occurs once every 60 years!
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The Symbolism: The Horse represents strength, independence, and a “forward-moving” spirit.
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The Element: Fire adds passion, creativity, and a “spark” for new beginnings.
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The Vibe: Expect 2026 to be a year of high energy, bold moves, and chasing your dreams with speed.
Event Highlights: Food, Authors & Art
The Ridgewood festival is packed with activities for all ages. Your ticket doesn’t just get you in; it gets you an experience!
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Delicious Cultural Cuisine: Enjoy a full lunch (included with your ticket!) featuring traditional dishes and plenty of vegetarian options.
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Meet Acclaimed Children’s Authors: * Anna Kim: The creator of the beloved Danbi series. Her books, like Danbi Leads the School Parade, celebrate the magic of friendship and the immigrant experience.
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Joyce Wan: An award-winning author-illustrator known for her adorable, bestselling books like You Are My Cupcake and The Whale in My Swimming Pool.
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Both authors will be available to sign books and meet with young readers!
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Live Performances: Be in your seats by 1:45 PM to witness breathtaking cultural showcases, including traditional music and dance.
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Shop Local: Browse unique handmade items and desserts from AAPI vendors and sponsors.
Know Before You Go
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When: Sunday, January 25, 2026
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Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Doors open at 11:30 AM)
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Where: Ridgewood High School Campus Center
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Tickets: Secure yours at ridgewoodaapi.org or Ridgewood Local Events.
Quick Event Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Zodiac Sign | Fire Horse (Strength & Energy) |
| Food | Lunch included (Vegetarian available) |
| Special Guests | Anna Kim & Joyce Wan |
| Performance Start | 1:45 PM Sharp |
| Organizer | Ridgewood AAPI Alliance |
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