The Multicultural Association of Edmonds is gearing up for its third annual Lunar New Year evening event on Saturday, February 10, at the Edmonds Center for the Arts. With the Year of the Rabbit bidding adieu and the Year of the Dragon taking center stage starting February 10, 2024, Asian communities across Puget Sound are preparing for family gatherings, festive revelries, and delectable feasts.
The festivities commence at 12:00 p.m. with a lively program, including a traditional Mak Fai Lion Dance by the Northwest Wushu Academy, a captivating break dance showcase by the Massive Monkees, and insightful speeches by esteemed figures such as Lynnwood Mayor Christine Frizzell, Edmonds Mayor Mike Rosen, and Edmonds School District Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Minor.
Highlighting the significance of Korean American Day and the Lunar New Year, the City of Lynnwood issued proclamations, embracing the cultural richness of these celebrations. The Multicultural Association of Edmonds proudly accepted the Lunar New Year proclamation, along with Lynnwood’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission and Doug Raiford, Equity and Social Justice Advisor for the City of Lynnwood.
At 1:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy a screening of “She Marches in China Town,” a compelling short film spotlighting the Seattle Chinese Girl’s Drill Team, followed by a Q&A session with Director Della Chen and a member of the featured drill team. Local educators attending the screening will receive an hour of continued education credit.
Throughout the day, visitors can explore a bustling market showcasing goods from local Asian-owned businesses, engage in arts and crafts activities such as Chinese calligraphy, and peruse various vendors and booths within the Center of the Arts. A beer and wine tent will also cater to guests aged 21 and above.
As the sun sets, the evening festivities kick off from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m., featuring live music by the Chime Band, another thrilling break dance performance by the Massive Monkees, and a captivating performance by Chinese American indie pop star, Chinese American Bear. King 5 News Anchor Mimi Jung will host the event.
While the daytime celebration is open to all free of charge, the evening event requires tickets, starting at $27.50 for General Admission and $102.50 for VIP, offering perks such as early entry, a swag bag, and light refreshments by Bar Dogo. Proceeds from ticket sales will support future community events organized by the Multicultural Association of Edmonds.
Lunar New Year Edmonds aims to celebrate the diverse Asian American community in Edmonds and share the joyous occasion with all members of the community. Karin Mei Butler, representing the Multicultural Association of Edmonds, expressed her hope that this shared celebration would foster understanding and unity within the community.
Born out of the success of Edmonds’ inaugural Lunar New Year celebration in January 2022, the Multicultural Association of Edmonds endeavors to empower the city’s diverse cultural communities to showcase their traditions and festivities. Through the exchange of culinary delights, dance, music, visual arts, and other cultural expressions, the association seeks to cultivate a vibrant and interconnected community for all to enjoy.