New Lexington School and El Monte City School District held their 2nd Annual Lunar New Year Festival on Thursday, February 8, 2024, inviting families and community members to join in the celebration.
The festival took place at New Lexington and aimed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Lunar New Year through various activities and performances.
New Lexington, known as the central hub for the district’s Mandarin Dual Language Immersion program, is dedicated to immersing students in Chinese language and culture.
The Lunar New Year celebration provided an opportunity for students to share their learning and appreciation for Chinese and Asian traditions with the community.
Visitors to the event were treated to a diverse range of activities that celebrated different cultural aspects of Lunar New Year.
Traditional crafts, games, a fashion show, and culinary delights were just a few of the offerings available. Families were delighted by the performances from the Mandarin Dual Language classes, which showcased the students’ language skills and cultural understanding.
ndoubtedly, the highlight of the festival was the spectacular dragon dance, a traditional symbol of Lunar New Year festivities.
Participants marveled at the vibrant colors and rhythmic movements of the dragon as it gracefully weaved through the crowds, symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Helen Guo-Perez, Principal of New Lexington, expressed her excitement about opening the school’s doors to the community and sharing the joy of Lunar New Year. She emphasized that events like these not only celebrate cultural diversity, but also foster a sense of unity and understanding among students and families.
The 2nd Annual Lunar New Year Festival organized by New Lexington School and El Monte City School District exemplified the importance of cultural appreciation and inclusion. By providing a platform for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of Chinese and Asian traditions, the event created an atmosphere of unity and celebration.
Through activities, performances, and the captivating dragon dance, attendees were able to immerse themselves in the spirit of the Lunar New Year and gain a deeper understanding of its significance.
wAs the festival came to a close, families and community members left with a renewed sense of cultural appreciation and a shared experience that will be cherished for years to come. The success of this event serves as a testament to the commitment of New Lexington School and El Monte City School District in promoting cultural diversity and fostering an inclusive environment for all students and families.