January 30, 2026

Chinatown Cleanup Before Choy Cheng

Chinatown Community Cleanup Brings Together Over 100 Volunteers

On January 24, a successful Chinatown cleanup was held ahead of the major Chinese New Year community celebrations. The effort was co-hosted by the Honolulu Police Department (HPD), Weed and Seed, and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, with the shared goal of refreshing Chinatown and preparing the neighborhood for upcoming festivities at the Chinatown Community.

More than 100 volunteers turned out to support the cleanup, demonstrating strong community pride and collaboration. The Chinese Chamber team was led by

President Gabe Lee, along with Chinatown Task Force Co-Chairs Wes Fong and Yushing Ting, and Past President Michele Choy. Adding to the spirit of the event, the 76th Narcissus Queen Madeline Au, First Princess Rowan Drowns, Second Princess Katelyn Chong, and Third Princess Mei Lani Wilkemeyer also participated, showing their commitment to community service.

The cleanup highlighted the power of partnership and volunteerism in keeping Chinatown clean, welcoming, and ready to celebrate the Lunar New Year together.

KHON 2 Coverage

Chinatown Open House

Choy Cheng (采青), literally meaning “gathering the greens” is a cherished Chinese New Year tradition symbolizing renewal, prosperity, and the welcoming of spring. Each year, the Chinese Chamber proudly presents Chinatown Open House, an event that brings this centuries-old custom to life in the heart of Honolulu’s Chinatown.

A Living Tradition in Chinatown

On Friday from 6pm, February 13, 2026, the Chinese Chamber officers will lead the newly crowned Narcissus Queen and Court through Chinatown to visit local merchants, extending New Year blessings for good fortune, health, and business success.

As part of this vibrant tradition, nine lion dance groups, organized by the Chinese Chamber, will spread throughout Chinatown, performing spirited lion dances accompanied by festive firecrackers. Each lion troupe brings its own unique style, colors, and energy, creating an unforgettable experience for merchants, residents, and visitors alike.

Choy Cheng is not only a cultural blessing—it is also a powerful way to promote Chinatown as a destination for business, dining, and cultural discovery. Thousands gather each year to witness the performances, celebrate the New Year, and support local merchants.

Chinese New Year Celebration

February 13–14, 2026 | Chinatown Cultural Plaza

Following Choy Cheng, the celebration continues with a two-day Chinese New Year Festival at Chinatown Cultural Plaza. This major community event features:

· Food booths offering traditional Chinese delicacies

· Vendors selling narcissus flowers, arts, and crafts

· Live stage performances with traditional Chinese music and dance

· A festive atmosphere that draws both local families and visitors

Choy Cheng and the Chinese New Year Celebration together represent one of Honolulu’s most iconic Lunar New Year traditions. The event plays an important role in promoting cultural heritage, strengthening community ties, and supporting tourism during the winter season.

Join us as we welcome the Lunar New Year, honor tradition, and celebrate the spirit of Chinatown.

Chinese New Year 2026 Dog Costume Contest!

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii invites you to celebrate the Year of the Horse with your beloved pups! Join us for an afternoon of community fun, incredible creativity, and plenty of wagging tails at our annual Dog Costume Contest.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, February 14th, 2026 (Valentine's Day!)
Time: 12:00 Noon
Location: Chinatown Cultural Plaza Stage
Admission: FREE for all spectators!

Special Guest & Highlights

We are thrilled to announce our Celebrity Emcee, Jennifer Robbins from Hawaii News Now, who will lead us through the festivities. The event will feature Celebrity Judges and Great Prizes for our winners!

Strong Start Saturday

Presented by Chinese Chamber

Young Professionals and Key Fitness Hawai’i

Aloha Members and Friends,

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawai'i Young Professionals and Key Fitness Hawai'i will be hosting a fitness workshop, health and wellness talk, and BBQ on a Saturday morning to promote healthy living. We will begin with a workout hosted by Ky Voung, a certified trainer, using the equipment on his mobile fitness truck. We will focus on functional exercises, Ky’s speciality. Then, Ky will give a presentation about health wellness and give attendees an overview of living a healthy lifestyle. Finally, we will socialize and network over BBQ and electrolytes.

Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM - Noon (Photo op with our newly crowned Narcissus Queen, Madeleine Au, and her court from 9:45 AM - 10:00 AM)

Location: Central Union Church, 1660 S Beretania Street

Parking: Free parking available on site

RSVP by February 14, 2026

Admission:

● $25 CCCHYP Members

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● $30 CCCH Members

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● $35 Non-Members

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