|
On February 13, Honolulu Chinatown was once again packed with residents and visitors as we celebrated Choy Cheng (采青) to welcome the Chinese New Year. The streets were filled with firecrackers, and lion dances, continuing a cherished tradition of blessing businesses and ushering in prosperity for the Year of the Horse.
We were honored to have the Mayor of Honolulu Rick Blangiardi light the first string of firecrackers, officially launching the celebration. A major highlight of this year’s event was the debut performance of the Yingge Dance Troupe from Puning, China—marking the first-ever presentation of this recognized intangible cultural heritage in the United States. Their powerful and dynamic performance added a historic cultural moment to this year’s festivities.
Nice Local lion dance associations joined the celebration, visiting merchants throughout Chinatown to deliver traditional New Year blessings. As part of the longstanding Choy Cheng tradition, Chinese Chamber officers led by Chamber President Gabe Lee accompanied the 76th Narcissus Queen Madeleine Au and Court in visiting community societies and businesses, strengthening ties and extending wishes for a prosperous year ahead. The Queen and Court visitation was coordinated with the assistance of Board Director Sherman Wong.
The Chamber extends sincere appreciation to Choy Cheng Committee Chair and Past President Leonard Kam, along with his dedicated volunteer team, and Past President Michele Choy and YP team for organizing a successful event. We also thank the City & County of Honolulu for co-sponsoring the celebration, and the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) for ensuring smooth street closures and public safety throughout the event.
Special Mahalo to the C. Q. Yee Hop Foundation for its generous annual grant support, and to all Narcissus Festival sponsors whose continued partnership makes this meaningful community tradition possible.
Choy Cheng once again demonstrated the unity, resilience, and cultural pride of our Chinatown community.
| 
