Step into a sea of red lanterns at this thing to do in Bangkok with kids during Chinese New Year 2026.
Whether you call it Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year, it is just around the corner and as always, Bangkok’s biggest celebrations centre around Chinatown or as we, the locals, call it: Yaowarat.
This year, the festivities are observed in a more respectful tone during the mourning period for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, so the programme might not be as extravagant as usual. However, it’s definitely still worth checking out!
Still, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has partnered with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Samphanthawong District and private organisations to present Amazing Thailand Happy Chinese New Year 2026. Under the theme “Ride the Fortune, Share the Future,” this historic road is lit up with large-scale festive illuminations. I stopped by the opening night. Here’s a peek at what to expect.
We’ve also rounded up the best things to do with kids for Chinese New Year 2026 in Bangkok and adorable Chinese New Year outfits for kids if you’re planning a festive family day out.
Amazing Thailand Happy Chinese New Year 2026: Details at a glance
Best for: Families, culture lovers, photographers and anyone looking to soak up festive night vibes in Bangkok
Where: Chinatown, from Odeon Circle to Chaloem Buri Intersection, Bangkok
Recommended time taken: 1–2 hours for a stroll along Yaowarat Road
How much: No entry fee, with street food along the way starting at B100
When: Until 1 March, 6–11pm
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What is Amazing Thailand Happy Chinese New Year 2026?
This thing to do in Bangkok with kids is an annual event that highlights the cultural ties between Thailand and China, bringing together traditional festivities, vibrant decorations and immersive experiences in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown.
This year, the stretch from Odeon Circle to Chaloem Buri Intersection transforms into a luminous festival corridor, creating a cinematic evening atmosphere throughout the historic district.
Tips for visitors: What to bring and when to go
The illuminations run daily from 6–11pm and I’d recommend arriving closer to 6pm to catch the moment the lights switch on. If you prefer fewer crowds, it is best to visit on a weekday as it feels more relaxed.
I spent just over an hour there strolling around, catching all the highlights from Odeon Circle to Chaloem Buri Intersection. I also found that there were plenty of stops that were made for beautiful photos to update my relatives with this Chinese New Year. Don’t forget to take your time admiring the details of each installation and reward yourself with legendary street food along the way.
As for outfits, this is your sign to dress up! I wore a cute cheongsam or a mandarin-collar shirt that fit right in. I felt right at home with my outfit choice, as many visitors embraced the festive dress code. It just makes the photos and the whole experience even more fun.
How to get there
The nearest MRT station is Wat Mangkon, which is a 10 minutes walk to Odeon Circle.
What to expect at Amazing Thailand Happy Chinese New Year 2026
I’ve always felt that Yaowarat’s neon signs already give the street its signature energy, but these curated light installations elevate the experience even more. If you arrive via MRT Wat Mangkon, I recommend starting your walk from the station towards Odeon Circle. Along the way, the street is lit with rows of red lanterns and you’ll likely spot tuk-tuks passing beneath the lights. It’s a beautiful visual blend of Chinese symbolism and Thai street culture.
The highlight, of course, is at Odeon Circle. The iconic red gate is framed by loads of hanging lanterns. Horse motifs appear throughout the installations in celebration of the Year of the Horse, including light projections on the ground featuring circular horse designs. Each projection carries a slightly different pattern. I recommend spending a little bit more time here, so you can check them all out.
Personally, I’d suggest making this spot your final stop after navigating the crowds and hunting for street food. Compared to other stretches of Yaowarat, it feels slightly more open, so it will be easier to pause, take photos and soak in the atmosphere.
