Edited by Adriana DiBenedetto
On February 8, 2026, a sense of festive anticipation filled the air at Clifton Middle School in Monrovia, California, where our Tzu Chi Academy in Los Angeles held its Lunar New Year celebration. Students and loved ones, adorned in vibrant attire, created an atmosphere of shared delight and cultural discovery.
A Season of Renewal and Joy
The day unfolds with bright smiles and vibrant energy as music and laughter carry across the campus. Photo/Wesley Tsai
The event opened with the rhythmic pulse of the lion dance, performed by young Tzu Chi volunteers to usher in blessings and good fortune. This was followed by an electronic rendition of the “Third Prince Nezha,” gracefully blending tradition with modern expression.
The artistry continued with “Jumping Official Blessings,” in which symbolic gestures and offerings conveyed heartfelt wishes for success and prosperity to all in attendance. Nearby, a diabolo performance highlighted both technical skill and cultural heritage, inviting students to engage with this traditional folk art firsthand.
Tradition in Motion
The campus transformed into a lively fair with 25 booths, each designed to engage both mind and heart. Students explored the delicate arts of calligraphy, paper cutting, and lantern making, while game booths offered playful interaction and small prizes. The exchange of red envelopes added a touch of tradition, as the aroma of spring rolls and rice cakes drifted through the air.
Young students enjoy a variety of fun, hands-on crafts at the Lunar New Year festival. Photo/Wesley Tsai
This celebration was made possible by the enduring efforts of our volunteers, staff, and parents. From the initial setup to the final cleanup, their work was guided by a commitment to environmental awareness, encouraging waste reduction and a deep responsibility to our Earth.
In this way, this festival became a vital classroom beyond walls, nurturing the values that sustain compassionate, responsible communities. As families departed with joyful memories and renewed blessings, we were reminded that when we celebrate one another, we also lift up the future we build together.
