DETROIT – Hundreds gathered at Eastern Market in Detroit to celebrate the Lunar New Year, an event that welcomed people from all walks of life.
Peggy Du, executive director of the Association of Chinese Americans, said, “I think if we just celebrate at home, not everyone understands, but if we welcome people to our home, they will see oh, this is the reason why we celebrate.”
The Lunar New Year is a holiday with a rich history.
Richard Mui, board president of the Association of Chinese Americans, said, “We really wanted to make a community event where we could bring the community together to celebrate and not just the Chinese community but the entire Asian American community and beyond.”
Now in its second year, the event has become a vibrant festival filled with cultural performances, interactive activities, and a huge selection of food.
Mui added, “We have Chinese, we have Japanese, Thai food, so again it stretched the gambit of Asian Pacific America.”
This year’s celebration honors the Year of the Horse. According to the Smithsonian, the horse represents hard work, bravery, and resilience.
Du said, “It’s the most grand celebration.” She added, “Normally in our culture kids don’t have to go to school and people don’t need to work so people can celebrate and have fun family time together.”
The celebration lasts 15 days, and everyone at the event was excited to take part.