Saturday, February 21, 2026
11am–4pm
Free admission all day!
Welcome the Year of the Horse, with artmaking activities, cultural demonstrations, and live performances. This contemporary celebration honors Lunar New Year traditions commemorated around the globe and here in San José. Explore and create with family and friends in this multigenerational event.
Stay tuned to learn more about our community partners.
Register for fast check-in at the admissions desk. Walk-ins are always welcome.
Hands-on Art Activities
11am–4pm
Year of the Horse Pom Pom Plushies
Celebrate the Year of the Horse and create your own horse plushie. This friendly decoration can join you for the festivities as a personalized keychain accessory.
Light Up Lanterns
Decorate a lantern to bring joy and good fortune to the new year. Once finished, hold it up to the light to reveal a special surprise!
Animated Rattle Drums
A symbol of strength and unity, the drum often plays a vital role in Lunar New Year celebrations to drive away evil spirits and energize the community. Craft your own rattle drum by using movement to animate a colorful firework display.
Performances
Vovinam America • 1–1:30pm
Traditional Vietnamese dance celebrates Vietnam’s vibrant cultural heritage through expressive movement, elaborate costumes, and rich storytelling, offering audiences a vivid window into the country’s history and artistic traditions.
Sun Hing Dragon and Lion Dance Association • 3:30–4pm
Combining powerful drumming, precise choreography, and vibrant artistry, Sun Hing Dragon and Lion Dance Association creates unforgettable cultural experiences that symbolize renewal and good fortune. Join us for a Lion Dance performance and photo opportunity at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez.*
*Lion Dance performance is subject to weather and will only occur in dry conditions.
Member Exclusive
Members' Hour
Saturday, February 21
10–11am
Join us for an exclusive Members’ Hour to kick off Community Day: Lunar New Year! Learn more.
Say hello to Fire Horse!
Fire Horse is here to build excitement for our Lunar New Year celebration and welcome new members. Not yet a member? Race to our membership page to join today. Your donation supports public programs like Community Days and helps keep the Museum strong.
In the Galleries
Pao Houa Her: The Imaginative Landscape
through Sunday, February 22
Young Bay Mud
through Sunday, February 22
ektor garcia: loose ends
through Sunday, June 7
Tending and Dreaming: Stories from the Collection
Ongoing
Member benefit: Enjoy unlimited free admission to our galleries for a full year.
Tips for a great visit
We look forward to your visit. Get set for your visit with a few quick essentials.
Quick Tips
Tip 1: Find parking at ParkSJ.org or visit our Getting Here page for directions, transit info, and more.
Tip 2: Questions? Ask our staff at the admissions desk or in the art galleries.
Tip 3: Accessibility equipment for use in the galleries is available at the admissions desk.
Tip 4: Food and drink are available in the Museum Café.
Tip 5: Tell us about your visit! Fill out a short survey.
Museum Map
Discover what awaits. Explore the Museum map before your visit.
Caring for the Art Together
Help us keep the art safe. Review our visitor guidelines.
Museum Store
Store Spotlight
Celebrate the Year of the Horse with the Jellycat Canterneigh Horse Pony ($60).
Member Special
- Members receive 15% off store merchandise during Lunar New Year.
New Members
- Receive a $150 SJMA gift bag + 30% off your store purchase. Visit our membership page to join today.
Museum Café
El Cafecito by Mezcal Restaurant is open to the public and offers a modern space to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Member benefit: Receive a 10% discount with every purchase at the Café!
United in Play: San José is for Everyone
From family-friendly events to inclusive experiences for all ages, San José Museum of Art is joining the City of San José to create spaces where the entire community can come together. Learn more at sj26.sanjose.org.