Flushing's parade is bigger and more local-feeling than most visitors expect — a genuine community celebration in the heart of one of America's largest Asian neighborhoods. It's the perfect excuse for a Flushing food day, from dumpling stalls to the food courts of the New World Mall. You get all the lion-dance spectacle of Manhattan's celebration with a fraction of the tourist crush.
What to expect
About two hours of parade units along Main Street and Union Street from late morning, sidewalks packed with families, firecracker sounds and lion dancers visiting storefronts, and long-but-worth-it waits at every restaurant afterward. Dress warmly — February in Queens is cold.
Good to know
- Date is based on the annual pattern (the Saturday after Lunar New Year); 2027 details not yet announced — verify closer to the date
- Lunar New Year's Day is Feb 6, 2027; Flushing's parade traditionally follows the next weekend
- Take the 7 to Flushing-Main St; the LIRR to Flushing also works
- Streets around Main St and Union St close from mid-morning
- Come hungry — this is one of the best food neighborhoods in New York
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Common questions
Is the date confirmed?
Not yet — February 13 follows the parade's usual Saturday-after-New-Year pattern. Check local Flushing announcements in January for the confirmed date and route.
How does it compare to the Manhattan Chinatown parade?
Flushing's is more neighborhood-scaled and less touristy, with a heavily local crowd; Manhattan's (Feb 21) is the bigger production. Many people do both.
