Chinese New Year Events in Penang 2026: Info & Schedule

Penang transforms into a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition during Chinese New Year, making it one of the most exciting times to visit this Malaysian island. The streets come alive with red lanterns, lion dances echo through heritage neighborhoods, and the air fills with the aroma of festive atmosphere. While the period can be busy with locals returning home and tourists flocking to witness the festivities, the cultural immersion and authentic celebrations make it absolutely worthwhile.

Visiting Penang during Chinese New Year offers a unique opportunity to experience centuries-old traditions in one of Southeast Asia's most culturally rich destinations. From temple celebrations to night markets, the island offers an array of events that showcase the Chinese heritage that forms such an integral part of Penang's identity. 

Source: Siew Chia En 

Is it Worth Visiting Penang During Chinese New Year?

Absolutely! Visiting Penang during Chinese New Year offers a unique cultural experience you won't find at any other time of year. The island comes alive with vibrant decorations, traditional celebrations, and festive energy that showcase its rich Chinese heritage. You'll witness authentic temple ceremonies, spectacular light displays, and street festivities. 

While it can be crowded and some businesses may close for a few days, the cultural immersion and authentic celebrations more than make up for it. Just be sure to book accommodations and transportation in advance to ensure a smooth visit.

7 Chinese New Year Events & Activities in Penang 2026

Chinese New Year 2026 falls on 17 February and ushers in the Year of the Horse. Here’s your guide to the must-visit Chinese New Year events and activities in Penang.

1. Kek Lok Si Temple 2026 Lighting Ceremony (极乐寺新春亮灯)

Source: Kong Chih Sang, Kenjooi via Facebook

The Kek Lok Si Temple in Air Itam is one of the best places to see CNY celebrations in Malaysia. Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temple, becomes a breathtaking spectacle during Chinese New Year. The temple illuminates with thousands of colorful lanterns and lights, creating a magical atmosphere that draws visitors from around the world. 

The lighting ceremony typically begins in the evenings leading up to Chinese New Year and continues throughout the festival period. The seven-tier pagoda, main temple buildings, and surrounding gardens glow with beautiful festive light displays, while the giant statue of Kuan Yin overlooks the festivities. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, taking festive photos, make offerings, and enjoy the stunning views of George Town below.

Launch date: 13th February 2026 - Throughout CNY

Daily Illuminations: Each evening, from 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM

2. Penang Miao Hui 2026

Source: malaymail 

With this year’s theme, “The Journey of Encoding”, The Penang Miao Hui brings the traditional Chinese temple fair experience to modern-day Penang encourages visitors to uncover the wisdom and stories behind cultural heritage. This bustling event recreates the atmosphere of old-world China with cultural performances, traditional games, street food vendors, and artisan stalls. It's a family-friendly celebration where you can watch acrobatic shows, listen to traditional music, and sample authentic Chinese delicacies.

The Miao Hui typically features a lively showcase of tradition and creativity, including lion dances, dragon dances, and opera performances. Children can participate in traditional games while adults browse stalls selling everything from calligraphy to handmade crafts. The event captures the communal spirit of Chinese New Year, offering both entertainment and a glimpse into cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Operating Hours: 4.00pm - 11.00pm

Event Date: 21st Feb 2026

Venue: Georgetown Heritage Zone

3. Jade Emperor Birthday Celebration

Source: KwongWahJitPoh

On the ninth day of Chinese New Year, Penang's Hokkien community celebrates the birthday of the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Chinese folk religion. This celebration, known as "Pai Ti Kong," is particularly significant in Penang, where the Hokkien community forms a large part of the Chinese population.

Families set up elaborate altars laden with offerings including fruits, flowers, roast meats, and specially prepared dishes. The most distinctive feature is the offering of sugarcane stalks, which symbolize gratitude for protection received in historical times. The celebrations peak at midnight as devotees make their prayers and burn joss sticks. Many temples, particularly those in areas like Tanjung Tokong and Pulau Tikus, become centers of activity. 

Operating Hours: 9pm to 12am

Event Date: 24 Feb 2026

4. Chap Goh Meh

Source: buletinmutiara

Chap Goh Mei 2026, celebrated on the fifteenth and final night of Chinese New Year on 7th March 2026, marks the conclusion of the festivities with its own special traditions. In Penang, this evening is particularly romantic, as it's traditionally seen as the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day. The most famous tradition involves single women throwing mandarin oranges into the sea while making wishes for good spouses.

The Esplanade in George Town and Bukit Tambun becomes a popular gathering spot where crowds gather to participate in or witness this charming tradition. Cultural performances, food stalls, and festive activities fill the area. Many temples also hold final prayers and celebrations to close the New Year period. The atmosphere is joyful and hopeful, mixing ancient customs with modern celebrations as Penang bids farewell to another Chinese New Year season.

Operating Hours: 4.00pm - 11.00pm

Event Date: March 3, 2026

5. CNY Night Markets

Source: mypenang.gov 

One of the best things to do during the Chinese New Year season in Penang is to visit the CNY Night Markets and buy goodies for friends and family. 

• Tow Boo Kong Butterworth Chinese New Year Night Market: Held on 23 Dec 2025 - 14 Feb 2026 from 6pm - 11pm  featured hundreds of stalls selling everything from festive decorations and traditional snacks to clothing and household items.
• Wuxia CNY Bazaar 2026: An annual Chinese New Year bazaar at Eco Horizon featuring a WuXia theme. With over 150 stalls and three days of exciting stage performances, it’s the perfect place to gather friends and family to celebrate the pre-CNY festivities together.

The CNY pasar malam buzzes with energy as families shop for last-minute New Year necessities, sample street food, and soak in the festive atmosphere. You'll find traditional CNY treats like goodies, love letters (kuih kapit), pineapple tarts, bak kwa (barbecued meat), and various types of cookies. The market also offers carnival games, cultural performances, and a genuine slice of how locals celebrate the season. 

6. CNY-Themed Decorations & Performance

Source: Siew Chia En 

During Chinese New Year, Penang is beautifully dressed in festive decorations, especially across major shopping malls and heritage areas. Popular malls in Penang such as Gurney Plaza, Gurney Paragon, Queensbay Mall, and 1st Avenue Mall feature elaborate Chinese New Year-themed décor.

Many malls also host Chinese New Year performances throughout the season, including lion dances, drum shows, cultural performances, and festive activations during weekends and peak days. These decorated spaces are especially popular for photo-taking, making them great spots for families, couples, and visitors looking to capture festive memories.

7. Chinese New Year Open House at SPICE Arena on Feb 17

Source: buletinmutiara.

On the first day of Chinese New Year, unlike the previous year, the Penang State Government will host a Chinese New Year Open House at SPICE Arena on February 17, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. The event will be graced by the presence of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Ramli Ngah Taib, and his consort, Puan Raja Noor Ashikin Raja Abdullah.

The open house celebration will showcase the richness of Chinese traditions, culture, values, and traditional dishes from different ethnic groups. In addition, cultural performances such as lion dances, traditional songs, and the 24 Festive Drums will be performed to enhance the festive lunar spirit. All are invited.

Operating Hours: 2PM-4:30PM

Date: 17th February 2026 (Tuesday)

Venue: SPICE Arena 

Are the Restaurants in Penang Open During Chinese New Year?

Expect many local restaurants and shops, especially Chinese-owned establishments, to close for the first two to three days of the festival as families gather for reunion celebrations. Street food stalls may have reduced hours or be closed temporarily. 

That said, hotels, shopping malls, and establishments in tourist areas in Penang generally remain operational. Indian and Malay restaurants typically stay open, providing dining alternatives. It's wise to plan ahead and check opening hours, particularly if you're visiting during the first few days of CNY.

What Attractions Can I Visit in Penang During CNY Holiday?

Most major tourist attractions in Penang remain open during Chinese New Year, including popular sites like Penang Hill, Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm, The Top Penang, and more during this period. 

• Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm: Entopia Penang remains a great family-friendly attraction; they're open even during CNY. Discover 15,000 free flying butterflies and explore interactive exhibits, learn about insects and nature, and enjoy a relaxed experience away from the busy city center, making it ideal for families with kids during CNY.
• The Habitat Penang Hill: The Habitat Penang Hill is perfect for visitors seeking a peaceful escape during the festive period. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it offers scenic walking trails, canopy walks, and panoramic views of Penang. 
• The Top Penang:  Located in KOMTAR, The Top Penang is a convenient all-in-one attraction during Chinese New Year. With indoor attractions such as Tech Dome Penang, Rainbow Skywalk, and observation decks, it is suitable for all ages and less impacted by holiday closures.

Conclusion

Chinese New Year in Penang is one of the most celebrated year in Malaysia when the island's rich cultural heritage is on full display through temple ceremonies, street celebrations, and community gatherings. From the illuminated light at Kek Lok Si Temple to the romantic traditions of Chap Goh Meh, each event offers a unique window into the customs that have shaped Penang's identity that every local and tourist should experience.

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Planning your visit around these events ensures you'll experience the authentic Lunar New Year 2026 spirit in Penang. However, remember that navigating Penang during this busy period requires some logistics planning, especially when it comes to transportation.

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