In keeping with tradition, the vibrant atmosphere of the San Francisco Chinese New Year Parade illuminated the heart of downtown in celebration of the auspicious Year of the Dragon. Drawing a diverse crowd of tens of thousands, the parade snaked along the 1.3-mile route, meandering through the iconic Market Street, encircling Union Square, and weaving its way through the infamous Chinatown district. The favorable weather, devoid of rain or cold, provided an ideal backdrop for spectators to revel in the festivities.

OAKLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT


Regarded as the largest Chinese New Year Parade outside of Asia, this year featured a showcase of cultural richness with 19 intricately designed floats and the participation of 122 community groups, including the Oakland Fire Department.

Vintage-style photo of red fire engine and yellow school bus on urban street.
A uniformed firefighter poses beside a fire truck in the city.
A uniformed firefighter sits on a vintage red fire truck in a city street.
Two uniformed officials having a conversation next to a red fire truck in an urban setting.
Two young children sitting on the front of a bright red vintage fire truck with American flag.
A group of firefighters in dress uniforms standing together on a city street.
A firefighter stands atop a red fire truck gesturing against urban skyscrapers.
A classic red O.F.D. fire truck parked on a city street with American flag displayed.
A large group of firefighters in formal uniforms gathered on a city street with flags.
Passengers enjoying a ride on a vintage red fire truck through city streets.

YEAR OF THE DRAGON


Symbolizing good fortune and prosperity, the Year of the Dragon holds special significance. Those born under this zodiac sign, including individuals born in 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, and 2024, are believed to possess traits such as innovation and an inquisitive mind. As the city resonated with the energy of the dragon, the parade served as a communal expression of joy and unity, reinforcing the cultural fabric that binds San Francisco's diverse communities.

Crowds line city streets viewed through a red vintage vehicle window during a parade.
Urban parade procession marches down city street as spectators line both sides.
Large crowd gathers behind metal barricades along city street during event.
Person in uniform sits in vintage red vehicle during parade.
People crossing urban intersection with tall buildings and street signs.
Crowd lines both sides of crosswalk as parade participants walk through city street.
Spectators gather along tree-lined city street to watch parade procession.
Parade route through urban street with crowds behind barriers on both sides.
Crowd gathered outside Louis Vuitton store behind metal barriers during event.
Red fire hat worn during Chinese New Year celebration with crowd in background.
Urban street scene with fire truck and vehicles in downtown area.