Families filled Mitchell Park Jan. 25 for the 2026 Lunar New Year celebration, enjoying art stations, lion dances and cultural activities to honor Chinese New Year traditions.
Event coordinator Martha Tran said the lively afternoon performances and crafts took huge amounts of planning.
“One of the biggest challenges is coordinating all the moving parts when planning for a large attendance,” Tran said. “People may not realize how much goes into behind-the-scenes details with securing performers, community organizations, craft activities and supplies while ensuring the event is welcoming for all age ranges.”
In addition to curating a welcome environment for all ages, Tran also mentioned the importance of balancing authenticity with accessibility.
“By combining these authentic voices, we are able to create an event that honors different cultures and invites the community to learn and celebrate together,” Tran said.
This welcoming yet authentic environment has led the Lunar New Year event to grow significantly in community interest.
“My goal this year was to create a warm, joyful, and welcoming event that celebrates new beginnings in a fun and meaningful way,” Tran said. “I hope families and community members leave with a sense of curiosity and appreciation for the many cultures that celebrate Lunar New Year.”
Ultimately, Tran said she organized the event to unite the community.
“The most rewarding part of planning the Lunar New Year is definitely seeing the community come together, celebrating, learning, and enjoying the experience,” Tran said. “It’s also incredibly meaningful to see community members feel proud to share their traditions.”
