This Sunday, February 1st, 2026, Paris is set to celebrate the Lunar New Year with an unprecedented spectacle. To honor the Year of the Fire Horse, a symbol of powerful energy and innovation, the organizers of the Chinese New Year parade on the Champs-Élysées have decided to incorporate articulated automatons and luminous drones into the traditional procession for the first time.
A 4-Meter Mechanical Horse Leads the Way
This initiative, supported by several digital artist collectives, aims to symbolize the modernity of the Asian diaspora in France. A 4-meter-high mechanical horse, piloted by artificial intelligence, will lead the parade between the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde. Lion and dragon dances will be accompanied by holographic percussion, bridging ancestral folklore with 2026 technology. While tactile contact will be limited for security reasons, the robots will interact visually with the public via sensors and integrated screens.
More than 600 artists are also mobilized, a record number for the avenue. A spectacular Mongolian equestrian dance is planned, as well as an equestrian pantomime parade. In addition to the classic lion and dragon dances (9 dragons and 15 lions announced), attendees will witness the traditional Miao dance from Guizhou and the Ying ge dance (presented for the first time in Europe by the Ying ge Eye troupe).
Dozens of participants will also wear majestic traditional costumes, offering a highly “Instagrammable” aesthetic.
The Rare Year of the Fire Horse and Its Significance
Beyond the spectacle, 2026 is a rare year in the Chinese calendar. The Fire Horse returns only every 60 years. According to oriental astrology experts, it is a year of great social upheaval and overflowing creativity. This “robotized” parade is a perfect illustration of this.
Practical Information for Attendees
A record number of visitors is expected this weekend. Here’s what you need to know:
- Departure Time: 2:30 PM
- Route: Avenue des Champs-Élysées (pedestrianized for the occasion)
- Advice: Favor adjacent metro stations (Franklin D. Roosevelt, George V) as Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station risks being saturated from 1:00 PM.
The event promises to be a vibrant fusion of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the Chinese New Year and the innovative character of the Fire Horse.
