Lunar New Year travel surge peaks as millions begin Year of the Horse celebrations

Feb. 17, 2026 — Travelers and revelers across East Asia and global diaspora communities kicked off Lunar New Year festivities Tuesday, sparking packed train stations, heavier-than-usual road traffic and expanded public performances as authorities worked to manage one of the largest holiday movements of the year.

Transport hubs stretched as millions move for family reunions

Rail terminals and airports reported high volumes early Tuesday morning as people headed home or set out for holiday trips. Rail operators added extra services on major trunk routes to handle the surge, while bus networks extended schedules to accommodate demand. Authorities encouraged travelers to arrive early, expect delays and allow extra time for inspections at busy stations.

The holiday spike coincided with peak commuter windows in several major cities, producing long queues at ticket counters and crowded platforms. Road authorities issued travel advisories and temporary traffic measures on major corridors leading into urban centers and scenic destination areas to ease bottlenecks and reduce secondary collisions. Emergency response teams were on heightened alert and set up temporary medical stations at key interchange points.

Public celebrations expand as communities mark the Year of the Horse

Outdoor parades, lantern displays and cultural performances filled squares and waterfront promenades as communities observed traditional rituals and modern festivities. Local governments and event organizers extended opening hours for cultural sites and arranged extra cleaning and crowd-control staff to keep events running smoothly. Organizers emphasized public-safety messaging, reminding attendees to follow posted guidance and cooperate with stewards.

Smaller diaspora communities staged neighborhood lion dances, street markets and community dinners, reflecting a mix of long-standing customs and newer holiday programming aimed at younger participants. Retailers reported brisk sales of traditional foods, festival goods and seasonal gifts, underscoring the economic lift the holiday delivers for small businesses and merchants in popular shopping districts.

Authorities balance tradition with public-safety measures

Officials balanced celebration permits and noise restrictions with public-safety protocols, especially in dense urban areas. Security screenings at major event sites were routine. Health agencies reiterated baseline hygiene guidance for large gatherings, and transportation operators deployed cleaning crews to high-touch areas more frequently during the run of the holiday.

While most events proceeded without major disruption, localized delays and crowding led some organizers to stagger performance times or redirect foot traffic to alternative viewing areas. Community leaders encouraged those with mobility concerns to take advantage of reserved seating or quieter event zones and advised families to designate meeting points in case members became separated.

As the week progresses, travel centers are expected to remain busy with return journeys and secondary excursions to tourist spots. Authorities urged travelers to check schedules, carry valid identification for ticketing checks, and maintain personal safety awareness during large gatherings.

The Lunar New Year holiday remains one of the planet's largest annual human migrations, and this year's observances once again highlight how cultural tradition, commerce and public logistics intersect during a concentrated holiday period.