Lunar Energy & Early Spring Air
Lion dances, local markets, and just enough reason to step outside.
Hi parents,
There’s a particular kind of weekend that feels full but in a good way.
Lion dances echoing through libraries. Lanterns strung across city streets. Farmers’ markets are settling back into their rhythm. And just enough early spring light to make you want to stay outside a little longer.
You don’t need to do everything. Pick one celebration. One walk. One storytime. Let the rest go.
Here’s what’s worth knowing about.
Happening All Weekend
Disney on Ice: Let’s Dance!
Showtimes vary | 📍 Oakland Arena, 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland
Mickey, Moana, Elsa, Simba, Ariel, and friends take the ice in this high‑energy show packed with skating, lights, and familiar songs. Great for families wanting a big, memorable outing.
All ages | Tickets vary | Get details
The Eyes & The Impossible
Showtimes vary | 📍 Z Space, 450 Florida St, San Francisco
A magical stage adaptation of Dave Eggers’ Newbery Medal–winning book about Johannes, a dog who watches over a seaside park. A thoughtful introduction to live theater for older kids.
Best for ages 8+ | Tickets vary | Learn more
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Showtimes vary | 📍 Montgomery Theater, 271 S. Market St, San Jose
A funny, heartfelt musical about a group of quirky kids competing in a spelling bee. The matinees are especially family-friendly.
Best for ages 8+ | Tickets vary | Learn more
Friday, February 27
West Coast Lion Dance — Lunar New Year Celebration
10:30 am | 📍 Foster City Library, 1000 E. Hillsdale Blvd, Foster City
A bilingual Mandarin storytime leads into a dazzling lion dance performance. A joyful and accessible way to experience Lunar New Year traditions.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Portola Lunar New Year Celebration
4:00–5:30 pm | 📍 2565 San Bruno Ave, San Francisco
A neighborhood celebration with lion dance, crafts, games, and community booths. Festive and welcoming, with multilingual support.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Sunset Night Market — Lunar New Year Edition
5:00–10:00 pm | 📍 Irving St (20th–25th Ave), San Francisco
Food vendors, live performances, crafts, martial arts demos, and plenty of night‑market energy. Come early with younger kids or stay later with the big ones.
All ages | Free admission | Learn more
Saturday, February 28
Millbrae Farmers Market
8:00 am–1:00 pm | 📍 238 Broadway, Millbrae
An easy Saturday morning stop for produce, baked goods, and flowers. Pair it with a stroll downtown.
All ages | Free entry | Learn more
College of San Mateo Farmers Market
9:00 am–1:00 pm | 📍 1700 W. Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo
One of the Peninsula’s larger markets, with plenty of space for kids to wander while you shop.
All ages | Free entry | Learn more
Lunar New Year Family Day at Filoli
10:00 am–5:00 pm | 📍 86 Cañada Rd, Woodside
Lion dances, hands‑on activities, festive games, and cultural performances set against beautiful gardens. Make a day of it — wander the grounds and explore the Discovery Den.
All ages | Free with general admission | Learn more
Mountain View Lunar New Year Celebration
10:00 am – 2:00 pm | 📍 201 S. Rengstorff Ave, Mountain View
Live performances, cultural displays, interactive activities, and food trucks. A lively Peninsula option if you want something local and festive.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Seaside Story Hour with Marine Science Institute
11:00 am–12:00 pm | 📍 399 Marine Pkwy, Redwood City
Ocean-themed stories and the chance to touch live marine animals. Arrive early — space is limited.
Best for ages 3–10 | Free | Learn more
Mr. Boom Boom’s African Drum Circle
2:30–3:30 pm | 📍 270 Forest Ave, Palo Alto
An energetic, hands‑on drumming experience where kids can step into the rhythm. Part of local Black History Month programming.
All ages | Free | Learn more
de Young Museum — Free Saturday for Bay Area Residents
9:30 am–5:15 pm | 📍 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco
Free general admission to the permanent collection (advance reservation required). Saturdays often include family art‑making and sketching.
All ages | Free with reservation + ID | Learn more
Sunday, March 1
Chinatown YMCA Lunar New Year 5K/10K Run/Walk
8:00 am | 📍 Grant Ave & Sacramento St, San Francisco
A long‑standing community tradition winding through Chinatown’s historic streets. The 5K works well for families; the 10K is for runners.
All ages (5K family-friendly) | Registration required | Learn more
Storytime with Anna
10:30–11:30 am | 📍 940 Commercial St, Palo Alto
A nature‑themed story, songs, movement, and a simple art activity. A sweet Sunday rhythm for little ones.
Best for ages 2–7 | Free | Learn more
KQED Handmade Home Market
11:00 am–4:00 pm | 📍 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco
Plants, pottery, linens, and thoughtful goods from Bay Area makers. Browse the Grand Hall while kids enjoy the waterfront setting.
All ages | Free or paid ticket option | Learn more
Head West Marketplace — Season Opener
11:00 am–5:00 pm | 📍 1 Ferry Building (Back Plaza), San Francisco
Handmade ceramics, vintage finds, jewelry, and local brands outdoors by the Bay. Easy to pair with the Handmade Home Market for a full afternoon.
All ages | Free | Learn more
Burlingame Fresh Market
9:00 am – 1:00 pm | 📍 Park Rd at Burlingame Ave, Burlingame
A neighborhood favorite for produce, flowers, and pastries. Grab coffee, let the kids sample fruit, and ease into Sunday.
All ages | Free entry
If You Want Something Simple
A family hike at Mori Point (Pacifica) or Edgewood Park (Redwood City).
A museum day at Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo.
A slow wander through a farmers’ market and nearby playground.
Sometimes one small outing is enough.
Have a wonderful weekend — whether it’s colorful and celebratory, or quiet and close to home.
If this guide helps even a little with the planning, I’m glad you’re here.