Celebrating Lunar New Year
Published on February 25, 2026
Lunar New Year (also referred to as Spring Festival) marks the beginning of a new year in the lunisolar calendar developed in ancient China. Celebrated over 15 days, the holiday symbolizes renewal, family reunions, and the hope for prosperity and good fortune.
2026 is the year of the horse. The Horse signifies freedom, energy, confidence, and dynamic opportunities. 2026 is the Fire Horse year, amplifying action, independence, and rapid progress.
In their zodiac year, Horses experience highs and lows in love, work, and health. Breakthroughs are possible through persistence, while balanced self-care and steady finances ensure long-term success.
With 26% of Renton residents identifying as Asian, and some of our largest foreign-born communities originating from Vietnam, China, the Philippines, and Korea, it is essential to acknowledge the significant contributions these communities make to our culture and economy. Their presence is a vital part of what makes Renton a welcoming and inclusive city.
Reception with Mayor Pavone, Renton City Council, Minh Duc Pham Nguyen, and community members
Before the February 23 city council meeting, Renton leaders and community members gathered for a reception in honor of Lunar New Year. The city also hosted a reception featuring remarks from Mayor Pavone and the Founder and Executive Director of Helping Link, Minh Duc Pham Nguyen.
“It’s a moment where family gathers and community comes together and pause to honor our tradition,” shared Nguyen.
Helping Link/Một Dấu Nối is a Vietnamese nonprofit in Renton that offers free education programs to our community.
After remarks from both Mayor Pavone and Nguyen, a traditional Lion Dance was performed by Lion Dance Martial Arts Team LLC.
This was the city’s third Lunar Year reception. The City of Renton hosts receptions on a rolling basis. The rolling calendar allows the city to recognize and make space for all the groups that make up Renton’s diverse community.
Many thanks to Tony Au for supporting the Lion Dance, Duc Tran for his involvement and support, and the food provided by Kim Phoung Restaurant.
Proclamation accepted by International Community Health Services
During Monday's city council meeting, Mayor Armondo Pavone designated February 17-March 3 as Lunar New Year. Accepting the proclamation were International Community Health Services (ICHS) CEO Kelli Nomura, ICHS Chief Information Officer Nam Phoung Hong, and board member of ICHS Foundation and Vice-President of Viet-Wah Asian Market, LeeChing Tran.
ICHS provides affordable health care in a language that patients can understand to King County residents. Offering a full range of primary medical, vision, dental, behavioral health, and nutrition services with interpretation services in more than 90 languages.
ICHS has 13 full-service clinics or services in Washington. Their mobile medical van—often seen in the Viet-Wah parking lot—brings health care to patients in need, and we are grateful to have them here in Renton.
The city has honored Lunar New Year with a proclamation since 2020.