The Lunar New Year of the Snake Celebration on January 25 at Newton Free Library — jointly organized by the Chinese American Association of Newton, Newton Education Support Network, Newton Chinese Language School, and Newton Free Library — was part of a month-long cultural exhibition and Spring Festival Gala.
Lily Weitzman, Manager of Programs and Communications at the Library, introduced the event with event planner Xiaoyi Shelly Zhang, who thanked the volunteers for their support. Michelle Luo, President of Chinese American Association of Newton; Thamzhin Tsikar, President of Newton Education Support Network; and Yujuan Yuan, Principal of Newton Chinese Language School, wished everyone a happy new year. The event was also supported by Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, State Representatives Greg Schwartz and Amy Sangiolo, City Council President Marc Laredo, and School Committee member Anping Shen, who attended the celebration and wished everyone a happy new year. The audience enjoyed the charm of traditional Chinese culture as friendship among neighbors blossomed and community members welcomed the arrival of the new year together.
The show’s performances brought together many wonderful acts from the Greater Boston area, featuring each performer’s hard work and talent. Through wearing traditional costumes, singing, dancing, and performing with traditional and modern instruments to celebrate the Lunar New Year, the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures made the festival celebrations particularly engaging.
This event was made possible because of many friends who volunteered, as well as the enthusiastic presentation of the performers. Many more photos of the event are available online.
Shelly Xiaoyi Zhang planned this event and is Board Chair of the Newton Education Support Network and Vice President of Chinese American Association of Newton.
