Feb
5
 
 
2024 Lunar New Year
Year of the Dragon
Experience a day-long multicultural Lunar New Year Celebration - where the spirit of togetherness flourishes, and traditions illuminate with brilliance.
 
 
Monday, Feb. 5, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

UCI Student Center and The Irvine Barclay Theatre  

 
From the dynamic rhythms of UCI Hansari to the thrill and spectacle of the Dragon and mesmerizing Feeding of the Lions, UCI's Lunar New Year celebration intertwines age-old customs and contemporary expressions, bridging generations and kindling hope. Guests are immersed in captivating performances that embody the spirit of the Lunar New Year while making wishes for health, prosperity, and good fortune for the coming year at the Wishing Tree. Every moment is infused with the spirit of the Lunar New Year, creating an extraordinary atmosphere that lingers long after the celebration ends.
 
 
UCI's Lunar New Year Celebration is possible through the generous support of the UC Irvine Long-U.S. China Institute and its partners the School of Social Sciences, School of Law and The Paul Merage School of Business in concert with the Claire Trevor School of the Arts, School of Humanities, School of Social Ecology, UCI Libraries, Center for Critical Korean Studies and East Asian Studies. Thank you to sponsors South Coast Plaza, Charlie and Ling Zhang, Long Family Foundation, Eugene and Carol Choi, Disney, UCI Long-US China Institute, and Office of Vice-Chancellor Brian Hervey.

 

9:00 - 11:00 a.m. | UCI East Asian Studies
Cultural Activities & Performances
UCI Student Center, Pacific Ballroom ABC
UCI's East Asian Studies department hosts a variety of cultural activities, including origami, Chinese arts and crafts, a Japanese Karata game, kimono and hanbok try-ons, and traditional Korean games, followed by musical and dance performances by various UCI student groups.  
 
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. | UCI Long-U.S. China Institute
Fireside Chat with Author James Zimmerman
UCI Student Center, Moss Cove
Join the UCI Long-US China Institute in the UCI Student Center for a captivating fireside chat with author James Zimmerman. He will take us on a thrilling journey through his book, The Peking Express: The Bandits Who Stole a Train, Stunned the West, and Broke the Republic of China. Explore the remarkable true story of train-robbing revolutionaries and passengers who got more than they bargained for as we engage in a captivating discussion filled with intrigue and adventure.  
 
3:30 - 6:00 p.m. | UCI
Lunar New Year Festival
Barclay Lobby and Theatre
*The feeding of the Lions begins at 3:45 p.m.*
The UCI Lunar New Festival creates an atmosphere of pure enchantment, where captivating performances and traditional customs come to life. From the enthralling dragon dance and the mesmerizing feeding of the Lions to the energetic beats of UCI Hansari, Hikari Taiko Drummers, and UCI KKAP, this festival promises to captivate and delight all. At the cherished Wishing Tree, guests can write their wishes on vibrant ribbons and hang them on the branches of the tree, creating a breathtaking display of collective hopes and dreams. It's a magical experience that lingers long after the celebration ends.*Be sure to find a seat early for the Dragon Dance and Feeding of the Lions*
 
 
This event is free and open to the public. UCI guest parking is available for $4 per hour or $15 per day in the Social Science Parking Structure or Student Center Parking Structure. For further information, please contact Melissa Churlonis, m.churlonis@uci.edu.