Posted by IGDVS Staff
On February 8, 2025, the serene grounds of the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas (CTTB) came alive with the joyous sounds and vibrant sights of a Lunar New Year celebration that truly embodied the spirit of community, family, and cultural reverence. The event, hosted by VisitUkiah and Instilling Goodness Developing Virtue School (IGDVS), welcomed the community to join in the festivities and celebrate the Year of the Snake at the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas.
The Lunar New Year holds great cultural significance, and this event exemplifies its core values—filial reverence, unity, and the strengthening of community bonds. One of the highlights of the celebration was the incredible talent of students who showcased their skills through a variety of performances. The lion, dragon, and snake drum dances, symbols of good fortune and prosperity, were met with applause as students moved with grace and energy, breathing life into these cherished traditions. Musical performances included renditions of Chinese New Year songs that filled the air with festive cheer, while joyful Chinese dances transported attendees to the heart of Lunar New Year celebrations. Chinese orchestra performances added a layer of cultural richness, enchanting the audience with traditional melodies that further highlighted the deep-rooted traditions of the holiday.
The event was not just about performances but also about sharing food and cultural experiences with one another. The food booths, featuring Jyun Kang’s vegetarian dishes, were a popular attraction. Guests had the opportunity to savor flavorful curry, sweet and sour balls, crispy spring rolls, and steamed buns—each bite bursting with the comforting flavors of tradition. Other booths showcased a rich variety of Korean snacks, rice cakes, and unique Asian drinks, all of which contributed to a dynamic culinary experience that offered something for everyone.
In addition to the delicious treats, there were booths representing student-led non-profit organizations (Her Dreams Matter; Children of the World; Business Women; and Interact Club), Dharma Realm Buddhist University (DRBU), as well as IGDVS. These organizations highlighted the commitment of students to serve their community while fostering global understanding. Guests were also invited to experience Chinese calligraphy, engage in tea tasting sessions, and explore Buddhist Text Translation Society (BTTS) and Instilling Goodness books, which further enriched the cultural atmosphere of the event. Chair of Mendocino County Board of Supervisors, John Haschak, and Katrina Kessen, Executive Director at Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance, both graced the event with their wonderful speeches.
The success of the celebration was a true reflection of the vibrant spirit of Ukiah’s community—a place where diverse cultures and traditions come together to celebrate shared values and collective joy. Families and local community members united not only to honor the past but also to build lasting connections for the future. Through performances, food, and cultural exchanges, the Lunar New Year celebration at CTTB reminded everyone of the power of community bonding, the importance of embracing diversity, and the joy of shared traditions.
As we welcome the Year of the Snake, the festivities at CTTB have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended, showcasing the talent of students and the vibrant spirit of the Ukiah community.
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Categories: Events, Global Awareness