In the basement of Our Lady of Lavang Vietnamese Church in Elmwood, two lions danced through the crowd of toddlers to seniors.
“At least we can bring you a little closer to home, even though we are so, so far away from it,” said Vinh Tran, who works on the church’s youth ministry.
As the drum was beat to the performers, hundreds packed in celebrating with food, red envelopes and good company.
Hollans RainsA similar scene happened in Norwood, too. Asianati packed Gatherall Food Hall for its first Lunar New Year celebration.
“There’s so many different ways to celebrate here in the community, which we’re really excited about,” said Asianati Social Media Manager Samantha Burke.
Guests were treated to cooking demonstrations, photo booths, craft areas and a plethora of Lunar New Year decorations.
Asianati social media coordinator Vidita Kanniks said she appreciated how the offerings highlighted both the diversity of celebrations around the holiday, while still highlighting the Asian community’s unity.