Red lanterns. Lion dances. Fireworks in the night sky. Chinese New Year in Cebu is a mix of faith, food, family, and festive noise. From temples filled with incense to hotel buffets by the sea, the city offers many ways to welcome luck and prosperity this Lunar New Year. Here’s where to spend Chinese New Year in Cebu and what to expect when you go, read on for the full guide.
Cebu Taoist Temple Spiritual and Quiet Traditions
This iconic temple remains one of the main go-to for traditional and solemn Chinese New Year observance in Cebu. Devotees light incense, offer prayers, and climb the steps in silence while overlooking the city skyline. The atmosphere here is peaceful, ideal for those who prefer reflection over noise.
How To Get There?
Location: Beverly Hills Subdivision, Lahug, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: From Cebu City proper, drive toward Lahug and follow signs to Beverly Hills Subdivision. The temple is inside the subdivision; parking is available but can be limited during peak hours.
By Commute: Ride a jeepney bound for Lahug (usually 04L or 17B routes). Ask to be dropped near Beverly Hills. From the entrance, take a habal-habal going up to the temple.
Chu Un Temple Countdown at Fo Guang Shan
If you want something lively and communal, Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple hosts a Chinese New Year Countdown Celebration on February 16, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 12:00 MN. Expect lantern displays, lion and dragon dances, fireworks, horseback riding, fish feeding, cultural shows, and games.
Guests can join traditional rituals like offering prayers, writing wishes on the wishing tree, drum beating, and bell ringing to welcome the new year with blessings.
Other Information:
- Entrance Fee: ₱30 (price upon writing)
How To Get There?
Location: 246 V. Rama Ave., Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: If you’re driving from downtown Cebu City, simply head south along Osmeña Boulevard toward N. Bacalso Avenue. When you reach V. Rama Avenue, turn onto it and continue straight for several minutes until you spot the temple on your right. Traffic around this part of the city can be busy during peak hours, so it’s best to go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heavy flow. Street parking is available near the temple, but spaces can fill up quickly on weekends or during special events, so allow extra travel time if needed.
By Commute: From Ayala Center Cebu, walk to the nearby V. Rama Avenue jeepney stop along Escario Street. Look for jeepneys bound for Talisay, Bulacao, or Sanciangko. Board the jeepney and tell the driver you are going to Chu Un Temple. Ask to be dropped off at the corner nearest the temple along V. Rama Avenue.Once you get off, the temple is a 5–10 minute walk along V. Rama Avenue. Follow the signs for Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple, or ask locals if unsure.
SM Seaside City Cebu Festive Mall Displays and Photo Spots
Chinese New Year comes alive at SM Seaside City Cebu with grand décor installations across the mall. Expect vibrant lanterns, prosperity symbols, and Instagram-worthy setups perfect for family photos. It is a relaxed way to celebrate while dining, shopping, and enjoying seasonal promos.
How To Get There?
Location: Cebu South Coastal Road, Antuwanga, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines, in the South Road Properties area of Cebu City.
By Car: Drive via South Road Properties (SRP). The giant air conditioning and rubik’s cube are both visible in front of the mall, an assurance that you won’t get lost. The mall has wide parking spaces available.
By Commute: Ride a MyBus or KMK from SM City Cebu or Minglanilla going to SM Seaside.
Shangri-La Mactan Cebu Grand Reunion Feast by the Sea
Celebrate with an oceanfront buffet at Tides inside Shangri-La Mactan. The Chinese New Year Dinner Buffet happens on February 16 and 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM, featuring traditional CNY dishes and international favorites. A lechon parade at 6:45 PM adds a Cebuano twist.
Other Informations:
- PHP 3,113 net per person
- Children 6–11 years old: 50% off
- Includes one round of house wine, local beer, or soda
(Prices upon writing)
For a more intimate dining experience, Tea of Spring offers curated set menus from February 9 to 28, 2026:
- Blissful Set – PHP 2,318++ per person (min. 4)
- Longevity Set – PHP 2,788++ per person (min. 8)
- Abundance of Wealth “Poon Choi” Set – PHP 2,988++ per person (min. 10)
(Prices upon writing)
How To Get There?
Location: Punta Engaño Road, Lapu‑Lapu City, Cebu 6015, Philippines
By Car: From Mactan-Cebu International Airport area, follow Punta Engaño Road straight to Shangri-La. Resort signage is visible along the main road.
By Commute: Ride a jeepney or multicab bound for Punta Engaño from Mactan Newtown or Marina Mall. Inform the driver to drop you at Shangri-La entrance.
Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark Casual Buffet with Family Deals
For a more relaxed option, Alona Beach Café at Jpark Island Resort offers a Gong Xi Fa Cai Dinner Buffet on February 17, 2026.
Other Informations:
- PHP 4,800 nett
- (Prices upon writing)
Expect Chinese-inspired dishes in a laid-back setting, ideal for families and barkadas.
How To Get There?
Location:Maribago, Lapu‑Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive along Maribago Road in Lapu-Lapu City. The resort entrance is clearly marked, with parking available inside.
By Commute: From Mactan Newtown or Gaisano Grand Mall Mactan, ride a jeepney bound for Maribago. Ask to be dropped at Jark Island Resort entrance.
Whether you prefer temple visits, mall strolls, or grand hotel feasts, Cebu offers many ways to welcome Chinese New Year 2026. Plan ahead, expect traffic in peak hours, and book reservations early. Prices may change closer to the celebration date.
Gong Xi Fa Cai!
