Lion Dance and Parade in East Chinatown in honour of the Year of the Horse set for noon on Saturday

East Toronto residents are invited to continue Lunar New Year celebrations welcoming the Year of the Horse at a Lion Dance and Parade event set for this Saturday.

The event takes place on Feb. 28, starting at noon at the Zhong Hua Men Archway on Gerrard Street East, just west of Broadview Avenue, and travels through Toronto’s East Chinatown area

The annual Lion Dance and Parade is organized by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce of East Toronto, and will see the lion parade through the area visiting local businesses.

Lunar New Year is the beginning of the new year based on the lunar calendar and is celebrated around the world. For this year, it officially took place on Feb. 17. It begins with a new moon, and while some traditions are shared throughout different countries, each has celebrations that reflect the cultural identity of places such as China, Vietnam, Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Saying goodbye to the Year of the Snake, 2026 is the Year of the Horse by the Chinese zodiac.

The Horse embodies enthusiasm and speed, and brings a year focused on bold moves and exploration. There are 12 zodiac signs: Mouse, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Those born in the Year of the Horse are often seen as natural leaders who are lively, charming and adventurous. Birth years for the Year of the Horse are 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, and 2026.