The Student Services hallway came alive this week as the AAPI Alliance, Chinese Club, and World Language classes decorated in celebration of Lunar New Year, which began on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
“Our club leaders do a wonderful job creating space for all AAPI students and their allies to come together for things like Bring Your Own Ramen Day, Lunar New Year, and AAPI Heritage Month activities,” said Ms. Akiyoshi.
Club leaders and members regularly plan events like the Lunar New Year celebration during meetings and encourage all students to attend. The club meets every other Tuesday in Room 115.
Lunar New Year marks the start of the lunar calendar and is widely celebrated across East and Southeast Asia. Traditions often include family gatherings, special meals, and sharing wishes for prosperity and good fortune.
Common foods include dumplings and spring rolls for prosperity, fish for abundance, and sticky rice cakes (nian gao) for a higher position or growth in the coming year. Homes are typically decorated with red lanterns and paper cuttings, while family members exchange red envelopes (hongbao) containing money as a gesture of good fortune. Many also honor ancestors with offerings and prayers, blending celebration with cultural and spiritual traditions.
While Lunar New Year is celebrated across many countries, traditions can vary widely. In Vietnam, the holiday is called Tết, and families often prepare special dishes like bánh chưng (square sticky rice cakes) while visiting relatives and honoring ancestors.
In Korea, the celebration is known as Seollal, when people wear traditional clothing called hanbok, perform ancestral rituals, and play games like yutnori. Despite the differences, these celebrations all share themes of family, renewal, and wishes for good fortune in the year ahead.
This year, 2026, marks the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. The Horse is a symbol of energy, strength, independence, and perseverance, qualities that inspire students and staff alike.
The festive decorations in the hallway included lanterns, banners, and cultural displays that highlighted the richness of Lunar New Year traditions. Students and faculty were invited to explore the displays, learn about the zodiac, and share in the excitement of welcoming a new year.
“The reason why I wanted to help decorate this year was a mix of both wanting to be a part of something with my friends and also learn more about the culture. It was really fun and I enjoyed spending time with people I haven’t seen since last year,” said Jasleen Dejesus, a senior.
“The decorations help students become more aware of Lunar New Year. I’m really proud of people coming together to decorate the hallway, and you can see the effort put into it,” added Nicole Shea, a senior.
“I think the club truly grew my confidence in my culture. I’m so grateful to lead such driven and confident students and I hope we continue to make progress through community!” remarked Iris Park, a senior.