We are only one month into 2026, and celebrations are already filling up the calendar. While most Londoners are waiting for longer, sunnier days, there are a couple of events this month that shouldn’t keep you inside. February offers a blend of romantic activities and exciting parades.

Valentine’s Day
Valentine's Day isn't just for couples! Gather your friends and family and explore the variety of pop-ups, themed experiences, and special menus available across the capital.

The South Bank Centre's Royal Festival Hall will feature a romantic movie night, featuring a screening of Nora Ephron's Sleepless in Seattle on a grand HD screen. To enhance the screening, a full band will perform the soundtrack live, playing iconic classics from artists like Celine Dion, Louis Armstrong, and Nat King Cole.

A candlelit dinner sets the scene, but it’s London’s sparkling skyline that ensures it’s a moment to remember. Enjoy an unforgettable evening at Shangri-La in the Shard for a love inspired dinner or beautifully prepared cocktails while taking in the city views.

Valentine’s Day and flowers go hand in hand. For a romantic day out, visit Kew Gardens and explore the 250 years of history in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Kew's glasshouses and computer-controlled climate zones create a perfect escape for colder days to explore or embrace the fresh air with a stroll down Love Lane.

Lunar New Year 
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring festival, is celebrated by millions around the world. This year, it falls on Tuesday 17th, with parades taking place on Sunday 22nd. Join the biggest celebrations outside Asia in London, where hundreds of thousands take to the West End to celebrate. 

Explore the vibrant culture across Chinatown, Trafalgar Square, and Soho with a variety of free shows . A highlight is the Lion Dance, featuring colourful costumes, this traditional dance is believed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. The parade is a grand performance, last year drawing over 50 teams to form Europe's largest gathering of lions and dragons, starting from Trafalgar Square and finishing in Chinatown. Visitors can also enjoy stage shows that include martial arts performances and traditional dances.

On the 21st, smaller celebrations and parades will take place in multiple towns across London. Camden Market will feature big colourful celebrations with live music, kung-fu and acrobatic demonstrations, whilst Greenwich Peninsula will turn into a festival with performances, workshops and street food.