The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, occurred on February 5 this year. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar, which is the traditional calendar of China and surrounding countries. As the lunar calendar does not align with the common Gregorian calendar, the Lunar New Year does not fall on the same date every year.
Still, the City of Rockville never neglects the holiday. With over a fifth of its residents of Asian ethnicity, the city partnered with the Asian Pacific American Task Force to bring the celebration to its residents.
The Lunar New Year is celebrated by many Asian countries such as China, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and more. Traditions include gathering family for a scrumptious meal and giving red envelopes of money to younger members. This year—the year of the earth pig, according to the Chinese zodiac and elements—is said to bring lots of wealth and luck, so consider asking an elder for some pocket money!
The celebration at Richard Montgomery (RM) featured performances representing different cultures. Representing China were a martial arts performance from the US Chinese Wushu Institute, singing performances from the LiHui Music Studio, dance performances from Xiaorong Dance Arts (the Golden Universe Dance Studio) and the Fairfax Chinese Dance Troupe, a lion dance from the Yong Han Lion Dance Troupe, and a performance of the folk tale, Hong Niang (Matchmaker), from the DC Beauty of Beijing Opera. There was also a dance performance from the Cambodian Buddhist Society Cultural Committee and a buk (drum) performance from the Matsunaga Elementary School Korean Drums Team. Mayor Bridget Newton gave a few remarks as well.
Outside the auditorium were various stations for guests to visit, including an arts-and-crafts table for children, a table where guests could learn their name in Chinese, and a table where they could get names and messages written in beautiful Chinese calligraphy.
After the performances ended, guests were invited to the cafeteria for a light snack. The City provided spring rolls (pork or vegetarian options), noodles (with or without peanut sauce), and vegetable potstickers. Fortune cookies were available for the taking as well.The guests comprised an incredibly diverse group, including not just Chinese and other Asian residents, but also those who do not culturally celebrate the Lunar New Year. There were children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. Truly, it was an event that honored the diversity of our community.
Perhaps you’ll check it out next year!
Article by MoCo Student staff writer Charese Vo of Richard Montgomery High School