🎊 Celebrate the Lunar New Year at the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes
Every Lunar New Year, Paris celebrates in its own way. In 2026, the Chinese Year of the Horse will take place in a location full of meaning — the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes, a landmark of French equestrian culture.
On Sunday, February 22, the venue will switch to “World Festival Mode,” blending Chinese New Year traditions, horse racing, and family fun into one immersive day.
🎊 Part of the “Fêtes du Monde” program
This event is part of the Hippodrome’s February series Fêtes du Monde (“Festivals of the World”), which combines international cultural themes with the excitement of live horse racing. Alongside the races, visitors will enjoy lion and dragon dances, cultural showcases, and interactive workshops — transforming Chinese New Year into a participatory celebration.
🐎 The Year of the Horse at the Hippodrome
2026 is the Year of the Horse, and the horse is the very soul of Vincennes. Celebrating the New Year here creates a natural cultural connection between China and France — strength, grace, and forward motion.
Starting at 12:00 PM, the racecourse will take on festive red and gold colors. Traditional Chinese motifs will blend with the site’s historic architecture, offering both familiar warmth and fresh discovery for French visitors and Parisian Chinese families alike.
🐉 Free All-Day Family Celebration
🎉 All Chinese New Year–themed activities are completely free.
The event begins with an official opening ceremony featuring flag raising, national anthems, and a group photo.
🎉 Throughout the day, performances and cultural activities will unfold across the venue — dragon and lion dances, Hanfu costume showcases, traditional Chinese music, and themed exhibitions.
Rather than being confined to a single stage, the festival creates a flowing, walk-through experience, ideal for relaxed family participation.
🏇 Nine Live Horse Races
The Hippodrome will maintain its hallmark of live racing, with nine trotting races scheduled for the day. Spectators can enjoy the thrill of speed and strategy up close.
The highlight will be the Prix de Paris, known as the “marathon of trotting” for its long distance and endurance challenge — a must-see even for first-time visitors.
🐴 Behind-the-Scenes and Immersive Experiences
Visitors can join free guided tours of the stables to meet the horses and observe their pre-race preparations.
Those seeking a closer view can register on-site for the race-following bus (limited seats, free of charge), offering a unique trackside perspective.
Family-friendly experiences include:
Pony rides
Horse-themed carousel
Photos with mascot Troty
VR horse racing simulator
Mini sulky photo zone
All activities are designed to be fun, educational, and memorable.
🍜 The Flavors of China at Vincennes
In the Grand Hall, a Chinese Food Village will feature a variety of authentic dishes —
Steamed dumplings,
Sweet-and-sour pork,
Cantonese fried rice,
Spring rolls and dim sum.
These family-style dishes invite visitors to taste the New Year, making it a celebration of all senses.
Interested vendors may contact via WeChat: playinparis1.
🎟️ Practical Information
📌 Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 12:00 PM
📌 Venue: Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes, 2 Route de la Ferme, 75012 Paris
📌 Tickets: Free admission with prior online booking (digital or printed ticket required for all visitors, including children)
📌 Parking: P1 and P2 lots available by reservation (€5 fee)
FAQ
🤔 Is there an entry fee?
No, both the New Year activities and the races are free. Only parking (€5) requires reservation.
🤔 Is it suitable for children?
Yes, most activities are family-oriented.
🤔 Can I enjoy it even if I know nothing about horse racing?
Absolutely. The atmosphere and live visuals are easy to follow and highly engaging.
🤔 Can I attend just for the New Year activities?
Yes, participation in the races is optional.
🤔 Is the food village open to everyone?
Yes, accessible to all with the free entry ticket.
