Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake with us as we welcome a vibrant season of culture, diversity, and community! The Summit Area YMCA invites you to join us for our much-anticipated Lunar New Year events, designed to bring families and friends together for a memorable cultural experience. Through partnerships with local organizations, we’re proud to offer a unique opportunity to explore and honor the rich traditions of the Lunar New Year.
Lunar New Year Event at the Berkeley Heights YMCA
Sunday, February 2, 2025
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Berkeley Heights YMCA
Join us for the 7th annual Lunar New Year Festival at the Berkeley Heights YMCA! This year, we’re thrilled to partner with the Berkeley Heights Diversity Council, Han Academy & BuyLocal NJ to bring you an unforgettable evening of cultural celebration.
Activities include:
- Spectacular lion dance performances
- Live performances & K-Pop Dancing
- A dazzling fashion show highlighting traditional and modern Asian attire
- Fun arts and crafts for kids and adults
- Delicious food vendors showcasing authentic Asian cuisine
- and more……..
Community Giving Opportunity: From January 22 to February 2, 2025, the Berkeley Heights YMCA will collect donations for the Berkeley Heights Senior Center. We welcome contributions of the following items:
- Lotion
- Chapstick
- Socks
- Gloves
- Hats
- Puzzles and puzzle books
- Snacks
- Teabags
- Games
Your generosity will help us spread joy and warmth this Lunar New Year season.
Lunar New Year Event at the Summit YMCA & Summit Public Library
Saturday, January 25, 2025
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Summit YMCA & Summit Public Library
In collaboration with the Summit Public Library and the Chinese Club, we’re kicking off this year’s Lunar New Year celebrations with an exciting array of activities at two vibrant locations!
Highlights at the Summit YMCA:
- Sample a variety of delicious Asian cuisine
- Experience the thrill of live Chinese folk music
- Watch an incredible dragon dance performance
- Enjoy a traditional costume show
- Try Zumba with an international twist
- Receive festive New Year’s red envelopes
- Participate in games and a captivating kung fu demonstration
Highlights at the Summit Public Library:
- View a stunning art show featuring local and international artists
- Immerse yourself in heritage displays and showcases
- Learn traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy techniques
- Try your hand at woodcut printing, paper cutting, and Chinese knotting
This is a fantastic opportunity for families and individuals of all ages to celebrate, learn, and connect with the community in a meaningful way.
Why Celebrate Lunar New Year with Us?
The Lunar New Year is a time of renewal, reflection, and togetherness—values that are deeply rooted in our mission at the Summit Area YMCA. Our annual celebrations aim to:
- Foster cultural understanding: By showcasing traditions from various Asian countries, including China, South Korea, Singapore, and Vietnam, we provide an opportunity for all to learn and appreciate diverse cultures.
- Build community: Our events bring people of all backgrounds together to celebrate the shared joy of the New Year.
- Create family-friendly fun: With activities for all ages, our Lunar New Year events promise something special for everyone.
Mark Your Calendar:
Don’t miss out on these incredible celebrations that highlight the spirit of diversity and community. Bring your loved ones, make lasting memories, and kick off the Lunar New Year with joy and excitement!
Event Details
Summit YMCA & Summit Public Library
Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Cost: Free
Berkeley Heights YMCA
Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Cost: Free
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Thank You to Our Partners
A special thank you to the Summit Public Library, Chinese Club, Berkeley Heights Diversity Council, Springfield Unity Project, and New Providence Unity Project for their invaluable support in making these events possible.
2025 is the Year of the Wood Snake. The Snake is the 6th animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac, coming after the Dragon and before the Horse. Recent years of the Snake include 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, and 1953, with the next Snake year in 2037 (Year of the Fire Snake). It is associated with the earthly branch symbol si.
CONTACT & QUESTIONS?
TIFFANY ESCOTT
Director of Mission Advancement
SUMMIT AREA YMCA
tiffany.escott@thesay.org
