On February 1, Keller Auditorium will host the annual Oregon Lunar New Year Galarings in the Year of the Snake with a grandiose display of drumming, dancing, martial arts demonstrations, and vocal performances.
Organize by the Chinese Friendship Association of Portland, a community-based nonprofit organization committed to promoting greater cultural knowledge and understanding among Oregonians, the event is billed as Oregon’s most prominent and authentic Asian cultural event. Since its founding in 1993, the organization has expanded to include yearly advocacy events, cultural celebrations, and educational programs.
The annual Oregon Lunar New Year Gala, which is undoubtedly the association’s biggest event of the year, has over 300 performers who perform a range of entertainment, such as dance, drama, vocal and instrumental music, martial arts, and rhythmic gymnastics.
“It is not just restricted to the Chinese and Asian community,” stated Jiong Zhang, the gala’s director. Our main driving force is to spread awareness of Chinese culture so that it is accessible to all those who are interested in it.
According to Iris Zhao, program director for the Chinese Friendship Association of Portland, the roster is changed year to feature new acts from all age groups, from elementary schoolers to retirees.
Zhao stated, “We always get really excited to see some new faces and new programs.” plus a few fresh concepts.
Joe Wong, a Chinese American comedian and talk show presenter, is a new addition to this year’s gala. He will perform his trademark mix of chat show and comedic acts.
The gala’s goal, according to Zhao, is to unite Portland’s diverse ethnic communities.
“We will encourage mutual respect and inclusion among all Oregonians,” Zhao stated. Additionally, by participating in the art and culture together, we hope to celebrate our differences and commonalities and fortify the links that bind our communities of color together.
A bill to make Lunar New Year an official holiday in Oregon is also being worked on this year by the Chinese Friendship Association of Portland.
“This bill will be sponsored by Representative Tran,” Zhao stated. After that, the committee will vote during this session.
If approved, Lunar New Year, which falls on the second new moon following the winter solstice, would be recognized as a holiday in 2026. In Chinese and other East Asian cultures, the holiday is regarded as the most significant celebration.
READ MORE: Oregon’s Lunar New Year celebrations that honor the Year of the Snake
Families use the holiday to unwind, enjoy customary cuisine, trade gifts, and take in shows like the well-known lion dance. According to the 12 Chinese zodiacs, this year is the Year of the Snake, which represents rebirth and rejuvenation. This theme is evident in all of the gala’s varied events.
Workshops and pre-show cultural crafts will be part of the evening. Among the interactive activities are henna workshops, face painting, photo booths, and calligraphy classes where participants can write their names in Chinese. The Year of the Snake will be represented by a drawing made by attendees, which will be on display at the event and put into a competition for the People’s Choice award.
According to Zhao, the yearly event requires weeks of preparation and coordination, including several rehearsals, venue decoration, and a nationwide hunt for experienced performers.
According to Zhao, it’s a fantastic program to enjoy with friends and connect with community members.
Tickets for the Oregon Lunar New Year Gala start at $29 and go on sale at the Keller Auditorium, located at 777 S.W. Clay St., on February 1 at 7:30 p.m.
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Chiara Profenna discusses faith, religion, and cultural ties. You may contact her at [email protected] or @chiaraprofenna, or 503-221-4327.
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