Lunar New Year Parade and Classical Masterpieces: What's On in DC Today

Celebrate the Year of the Horse in Chinatown

The centerpiece of today's local schedule is the Annual Chinese Lunar New Year Parade. Kicking off at 2:00 PM in Downtown DC’s Chinatown, the streets will be filled with vibrant colors, traditional dragon dances, and community performances. This year marks the arrival of the Year of the Horse, and the parade route begins at 6th and I Streets NW, concluding with a massive firecracker finale on H Street. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early and grab a spot near the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station to catch the full festivities.

Afternoon Melodies and Closing Nights

For those seeking an indoor cultural experience, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is hosting the National Symphony Orchestra for a special 3:00 PM performance titled "American Mosaic." This world premiere event features the photography of Joseph Sohm set to a new orchestral score by Peter Boyer, alongside iconic pieces by Aaron Copland such as "Rodeo" and his "Clarinet Concerto."

The local theater scene is also bustling today with several notable productions. At the National Theatre, the hit touring production "Stereophonic" has two scheduled shows at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM, offering an intimate look at a 1970s rock band. Additionally, today marks the closing performance for the digital-dependency drama "Octet" at the Studio Theatre and Samuel Beckett’s "Happy Days" at the Washington Stage Guild.

Sunday Traditions: Markets and Museums

The city’s favorite Sunday rituals are in full swing today, providing plenty of opportunities for shopping and gallery hopping:

• FRESHFARM Dupont Circle Market: Open until 1:30 PM, this market features over 50 local farmers and producers offering winter produce, locally roasted coffee, and handmade dumplings.
• Eastern Market: The historic flea market on Capitol Hill is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, where visitors can browse unique antiques and handmade crafts while enjoying the atmosphere of one of DC’s oldest neighborhoods.
• National Gallery of Art: At 12:00 PM, the museum will host an introductory talk in the West Building on the exhibition "Mary Cassatt: An American in Paris." Later, at 2:00 PM, there is a free screening of the classic film "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" in the East Building Auditorium.

Event Update: Mardi Gras Cancellation

Please be advised that the "Mardi Gras at The Wharf" celebration, originally scheduled for this afternoon, has been cancelled due to forecasts of inclement weather. While the parade and fireworks will not take place, many restaurants along the Wharf remain open for indoor dining and special themed menus.