El Paso Museum of History
2026 Lunar New Year Celebration – Vendor Call

The City of El Paso Museums & Cultural Affairs Department (MCAD) is pleased to announce the El Paso Museum of History’s Annual Lunar New Year Celebration, honoring the Year of the Horse. This free, family-friendly event will take place in the El Paso Downtown Arts District on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The celebration will feature a festive procession, cultural performances, hands-on activities, food, and community celebrations in partnership with Pho Tre Bien, Ai-Hwa Chinese Language School, and other local cultural organizations. The event is dedicated to respectfully highlighting Lunar New Year traditions and the cultures and regions that celebrate them.

Event Date & Market Hours:

Saturday, February 28, 2026
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Application Information
Vendors interested in participating in the Lunar New Year Market must submit an application by January 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM MST.
This is a firm closing date—no late applications will be accepted.

Participants will be selected by a collaborative review panel and notified via email. Additional event logistics, maps, and setup instructions will be distributed via email upon acceptance.


Vendor Eligibility & Focus
We are seeking Southeast and East Asian artists, cultural groups, and small, locally owned businesses from the El Paso area whose work reflects Lunar New Year traditions and culturally appropriate regions.

Priority will be given to vendors offering:

  • Handmade arts and crafts
  • Traditional or culturally significant goods
  • Lunar New Year–themed décor, gifts, and art
  • Regionally and culturally appropriate food and specialty items
Franchise, corporate, and large-scale businesses will not be accepted.


Vendor Participation Requirements
Vendors must keep their booths fully set up and operational for the entire duration of the event (12:00 PM–5:00 PM).
No early breakdown is permitted for any reason.
Vendors who begin breaking down or leave before the official event end time may be subject to removal from the event and may be disqualified from participation in future museum events.

Fees & Permit Information
Artisan Vendor Fee: $60

City of El Paso Vendor Permits: Not required; permitting is included with the event

Cottage Food Vendors: Must have current food handler certifications and comply with all applicable health regulations

Question Title

* 1. I understand and agree that all products sold must be culturally relevant and culturally appropriate to Lunar New Year traditions and the regions that celebrate them, and that non-compliant items/applicants may be removed.

T