Shen Yun Performing Arts returns to Austin January 2–4, 2026, bringing its signature blend of classical Chinese dance, symphonic music, and high‑tech visuals to the Long Center’s Dell Hall.
Dell Hall, Long Center for the Performing Arts
$$$With multiple shows across the weekend and ticket demand already high, this is set to be Austin’s biggest cultural event to open the year. For a deeper look at the company’s mission and artists, explore the Shen Yun about page.
Ticket demand is typically high for Shen Yun at the Long Center—if you want specific seats or more affordable sections, book as early as possible.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Shen Yun features a full cast of dancers, vocalists, and a live orchestra blending Eastern and Western instrumentation, a format the company breaks down in detail on its “What is Shen Yun?” overview. Each season introduces a completely new program, meaning even repeat attendees see something different. Expect mythological storytelling, elaborate costumes, and digital stage backdrops designed to immerse the audience in ancient Chinese legends and dynastic history; you can preview the aesthetic through Shen Yun’s videos collection and the official 2026 trailer.
Shen Yun debuts a brand-new production each year—stories, choreography, and visuals are all refreshed—so returning audiences will see a completely different show from prior seasons.
ESSENTIAL INFO
Dates: January 2–4, 2026
Friday: 7:30 pm
Saturday: 2:00 pm
Sunday: 1:00 pm
Venue: Dell Hall, Long Center for the Performing Arts
Ticket range: Approximately $85 to $430 depending on section (check Shen Yun’s official tickets site or Ticketmaster listings for current pricing and availability)
Best value: Balcony seats often priced around $149–$157
INSIDER INTELLIGENCE
• Arrive at least 35–40 minutes early. Security lines at Dell Hall move slowly during large touring shows.
• Best parking: The Palmer Events Center Garage usually has faster entry and exit than the main Long Center Garage on busy weekends.
• The mezzanine lobby bar is almost always shorter than the main-level bar before curtain.
• If you prefer an unobstructed view of the digital backdrop effects, target mid‑center seating rather than close orchestra rows.
• Post‑show, the Long Center terrace offers one of the best skyline views in Austin for photos, and pairs nicely with downtown stops from our guide to Austin’s new luxury dining and nightlife wave.
Plan to arrive 35–40 minutes before curtain to comfortably handle parking, security, and a quick drink or restroom stop before the show begins.
If you’re driving, the Palmer Events Center Garage typically offers easier entry and a faster exit than the main Long Center Garage, and mid‑center seats give the best perspective on Shen Yun’s large digital backdrops.
RELATED AUSTIN INSIDER GUIDES
Round out your Shen Yun weekend with more only‑in‑Austin experiences:
• Inside Hayden James at The Concourse Project: Austin’s Post‑Holiday Dance Night Everyone Will Be Talking About – a high‑energy electronic show that makes a perfect late‑night counterpoint to Shen Yun’s classical program.
• Inside Poeta’s Fine Dining Debut: The Insider Guide to Austin’s First Major Restaurant Opening of 2026 – ideal if you’re planning a pre‑ or post‑show dinner near the Long Center.
• Inside Austin’s Rooftop & Lakeside Ice‑Skating: The Insider Guide to the City’s Last Outdoor Wellness Experience of the Holiday Season – a festive daytime outing to pair with an evening performance.
• For more immersive arts experiences in 2026, don’t miss Inside Submersive Austin: The Insider Guide to the City’s First Immersive Art Bathhouse Opening in 2026 and Inside Sandra Boskamp at The Cathedral: The Insider Guide to East Austin’s Most Anticipated 2026 Art Opening.
Related Austin Data
Inside Shen Yun Austin 2026: The Insider Guide to the Long Center’s Biggest Cultural Event of the Weekend
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