Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Year of the Dragon Initiative
The series of community events begin in January and conclude with a Lunar New Year celebration Feb. 10-11
Photos courtesy of Far East Center
The Far East Center proudly announces their Lunar New Year Initiative for 2024, a series of cultural events celebrating the Lunar New Year and honoring the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. Over the course of eight weeks starting on Jan. 2, Coloradans will have the opportunity to engage in arts and crafts, storytelling, holistic health workshops, culinary events, and more, all spotlighting the vibrant AANHPI culture at the Far East Center community space.
Brought to you by the Denver Economic Development & Opportunity office, Truong An Gifts, Far East Center, and NEWSED Community Development Corporation, the two-month-long Lunar New Year programming concludes with the shopping center’s revered 33rd Annual Lunar New Year Celebration on Feb. 10-11, 2024 at the Far East Center parking lot.
“I’ve collaborated with incredible community leaders, chefs, organizations, small businesses, performers, instructors, and artists to celebrate our inaugural Observed State Lunar New Year,” says Far East Center Event Organizer Mimi Luong. “This is such a historical moment for our community that I can think of nothing better than an all-out celebration! Through this initiative, we are not only celebrating a significant cultural event but also acknowledging and elevating the contributions of the AANHPI community in our state. It’s a time for unity, learning, and joyous celebration.”
The initiative also plays a vital role in stimulating economic activity, particularly benefiting local businesses and community centers. By sponsoring and participating in these events, businesses have a unique opportunity to connect with the community and showcase their support for cultural diversity.
Leading up to the Lunar New Year, the community has the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of classes, delving into aspects of culture, traditions, cuisine, storytelling, and more. The Year of the Dragon Initiative warmly welcomes everyone to join the festivities in the vibrant Little Saigon District, encouraging them to immerse themselves in a multitude of enriching experiences celebrating the Lunar New Year.
Arts & Crafts Week (Jan. 2-6): Discover Asian artistic traditions with workshops on dragon painting, lucky paper cutting, and lantern making. Learn the mythical story of the 12 zodiacs through art and crafts.
Immersive Stories Week (Jan. 7-13): Experience the fusion of culinary arts and storytelling with our ‘Kung Fu Dumpling Class,’ and enjoy mesmerizing acrobatic performances with behind the scenes lion dancing, and calligraphy.
Holistic Health, Mind, and Body Week (Jan. 14-20): Delve into Tai Chi, Qigong, Chinese Medicine with expert-led seminars and hands-on workshops, and introduction to a variety of martial arts classes.
Asian Culinary Traditions Week (Jan. 21-27): Savor the flavors of Asia with cooking demonstrations by renowned local chefs and hands-on culinary experiences.
Asian Traditions and Culture Week (Jan. 28-Feb. 3): Enjoy traditional to modern Kpop dances, learn about Feng Shui, and explore the art of traditional fashions of the holiday and paint your own Non La rice patty hat.
Lunar New Year Holiday Market (Feb. 1-9): Shop for holiday essentials and indulge in an array of local foods, treats, and decorations ready in time for the Lunar New Year holiday.
Colorado Observed State Holiday Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb. 2).
Official Year of the Wood Dragon Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb. 10 & 11) at the Far East Center.
Visit the event website and Facebook event page for the full schedule and lineup of community events. While most events are free to attend, space is limited so please register here.
“This event is open to everyone interested in learning and having a good time celebrating Lunar New Year,” says Luong. “Be sure to check out the amazing classes and workshops, and definitely, don’t miss the big celebration on Feb. 10-11! Whether you’re curious about our cultural traditions, looking forward to tasting some amazing Lunar New Year treats, or getting hands-on with workshops, there’s something here for you. Let’s come together as a community, share some laughs, and celebrate the Year of the Dragon with open hearts and good times!”
