Chinese New Year 2026: free program in Saint-Germain-en-Laye (Yvelines)

In Saint-Germain-en-Laye, the Lunar New Year is heralded with fanfare and color. The town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye in the Yvelines is bringing together families and the curious for a celebration open to all, in the heart of its historic streets. The atmosphere promises percussion, shimmering costumes and symbolic gestures, without distorting the spirit of tradition.

A festive Lunar New Year entirely free of charge

The event is free and designed for all ages, with a gentle traffic flow. The organizers are announcing animations, demonstrations and workshops in the city center, in an accessible format. So everyone can put together their own itinerary, with no ticket or time constraints.

In the Yvelines department, the parade features lion and dragon dances performed by experienced troupes. Local artists, volunteers and clubs energetically embody these traditions. And the streets are lit up with fans, red banners and amplified music.

Alongside the fashion shows, calligraphy workshops introduce young and old to simple techniques.Martial arts demonstrations punctuate the afternoon, led by renowned teachers. In addition, there are quiet times for families to take a breather between two choreographed tableaux.

“Celebrating the Lunar New Year here is a trip just a stone’s throw from home.”

Program and highlights

The procession advances to the sound of drums and cymbals, creating a collective cadence. Meticulous choreography alternates with pauses for photos and greetings. Volunteers guide the public, smooth the procession and make sure everyone is comfortable.

Playful workshops offer origami, Chinese knots and greetings written on personalized red cards. The Yvelines public can thus enjoy a complete experience, combining living culture and shared conviviality. However, the nearby restaurants fill up fast, so book early if you want to sit down.

• Recommended access: RER A, terminus Saint-Germain-en-Laye
• Rendezvous: downtown and pedestrian precincts signposted on site
• Price: free of charge, free entertainment
• Audience: all ages, families welcome
• Tip: come early, wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes.

Access, mobility and useful tips

To get here, the RER A serves the Saint-Germain-en-Laye terminus with regular frequency. From the communes of Yvelines, the journey to the center is direct, easy and fast. From the station, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to all the entertainment.

On such a day, the car can be a less convenient way of getting around. Streets fill up quickly, and some roads are temporarily closed for safety reasons. Cycling or walking, on the other hand, avoids waiting and makes short journeys easier.

Quiet areas are provided for noise-sensitive children, where possible. Reception staff remain visible, identifiable and contactable in case of occasional need. As a result, everyone benefits from a serene and caring environment in this corner of Yvelines.

Cultural benchmarks, gestures to adopt

Red brings good luck, so many people add a discreet touch of color. Avoid pulling costumes or obstructing the procession during evolutions. Also, thanking the performers and leaving space supports collective attention.

Greetings are made with a smile and a slight bow, as is customary. Local associations perpetuate these gestures all over the Yvelines department, with pedagogy. As a result, the public better understands the message of these symbols, beyond their festive appearances.

Local life, businesses and positive spin-offs

Local shops benefit from a regular flow of customers, conducive to neighborhood get-togethers. Bakeries, tearooms and bookshops sometimes offer a themed showcase adapted to the moment. In this way, the festival radiates out from the main squares to the adjacent streets.

This event fosters a fruitful dialogue between residents, visitors and associations. Mediations explain the codes to avoid clichés, using simple aids. What’s more, the program highlights the artistic talents trained here throughout the year.

In short, the town is betting on a festival that’s free, accessible and respectful of tradition. Its influence extends beyond Saint-Germain-en-Laye into the Yvelines, thanks to a shared mobilization. This convivial moment anchors the New Year in everyday life, with lasting positive energy.

• Yvelines