CVHS Lunar New Year celebrates tradition and togetherness

When the moment where guests stepped inside the CFA, it felt like walking into a festival. The room buzzed with excitement. Red and gold lanterns hung from the ceiling, and banners with Chinese characters lined the walls. 

CVHS hosted the Lunar New Year celebration in the CFA on Feb. 12, bringing students and families together to celebrate the traditions, and resilience of the Asian community. The excitement was palpable as everyone waited for the night’s performances to begin. 

The night opened with Xi Long playing “Racing Horses” on the erhu. The fast, galloping notes raced across the room, making it feel like the horses were running on stage. 

Archer Zheng and Jeremy Siu followed with a martial arts sparring demonstration. Gasps and cheers resonated throughout the room as the audience watched their impressive performance of skill and focus. 

During intermission, students and families gathered food of their own choosing at the concession tables. When many are fulfilled with the food choice, they await for the next performance on stage. 

K-Pop Club then took the stage, performing “Blue Valentine” by NMIXX, “Touch” by KATSEYE, and “XO” by Enhypen. The performance itself added a modern, high-energy twist to the celebration, bridging traditional Lunar New Year festivities with contemporary pop culture. 

“My friends are performing, so I’m really excited to cheer them on. And, of course — food, fun, and good vibes,” said sophomore Amina Messaoudi. “Events like this are important because people feel heard and represented. It shows how beautiful different cultures are.”

Students then gave presentations about Vietnamese and Chinese culture, explaining traditions and Lunar New Year customs. Their presentations helped the audience better understand the significance behind the celebration.

Then, the Lion Dance club energized the crowd next. Two performers worked together inside the bright red and gold lion costume, coordinating their movements to bring the lion to life. The performance symbolized good fortune and prosperity for the new year. 

Raynee Lin closed the music segment with “Overture of Spring.” Families and students watched in awe, some closing their eyes, taking in the sense of renewal and hope for the new year. 

Fashion Club closed the event with a cultural runway showcase. Students modeled garments representing different Asian cultures, including the Chinese qipao and Vietnamese ao dai. Each outfit reflected distinct traditions and craftsmanship. The showcase allowed students to express pride in their heritage through fashion.

After the performances, games were laid out on tables for families and students to enjoy. Each game was hosted by its respective culture club, including the Chinese Culture Club, Vietnamese Club, Mahjong Club, and Japanese Club. Guests played, laughed, and explored the different cultural games, keeping the energy lively even as the event started winding down.

“We want to see diversity represented in our school community and make sure everyone feels included,” said Kin Kwan, president of Chinese Culture Club.

“It’s a time to celebrate and renew,” said Isaac Nguyen, president of Lion Dance Club. “This brings our community together and reminds us that we’ll stick together.”

As the evening came to a close, families lingered to take photos and reflect on the celebration. The Lunar New Year event honored cultural pride, unity, and the strength of the community at CVHS. It was a night that celebrated not only tradition, but the shared hope of a fresh start.