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In recent years, the Walnut City government in California has held Lunar New Year celebrations that bring together officials and residents for a much-anticipated local festival. This year’s event took place with great fanfare on February 17, 2024, at Suzanne Park, attracting thousands of attendees. The Los Angeles Chapter of the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) supported the event, promoting ethnic integration and cultural harmony. The BLIA Walnut Subchapter provided exciting performances and set up booths offering various services.
Councilman Allen Wu emphasized the cultural and religious significance of Lunar New Year for the Chinese community in an interview, noting that these celebrations offer spiritual support. He highlighted that even the White House celebrated Lunar New Year this year, showcasing its growing acceptance and appreciation.
Councilman Wu, Ven. Hui Dong (abbot of Hsi Lai Temple), Ven. Chueh Sheng (guiding venerable of the Walnut Subchapter), President Alex Wu, and Vice President Echo Tsai of the BLIA LA Chapter visited the exhibition area. Attendees were delighted to see Ven. Hui Dong, eagerly seeking his advice and acknowledging Hsi Lai Temple’s activities for young students. Ven. Hui Dong noted that participating in these events helps spread the teachings of Venerable Master Hsin Yun, the founding master of Fo Guang Shan, encouraging young people to embrace Humanistic Buddhism.
It was Ven. Chueh Sheng's first time participating in such an event. She expressed joy at seeing overseas Chinese celebrating their New Year together, calling it both joyous and heartwarming.
President Hui Wang and ten members of the Walnut Subchapter set up booths in the morning, offering Chinese and English brochures, couplets, teachings of Venerable Master, and tutorials on making red envelope lanterns and water calligraphy. They also organized the popular "Turning the Dharma Wheel" game to introduce Humanistic Buddhism, Chinese culture, and New Year customs to American friends. The Walnut Subchapter also featured children’s martial arts performances by Oliver and Melody, which received enthusiastic applause.
Throughout the event, the Walnut City government and sponsors provided spring rolls and milk tea, keeping the lively atmosphere going until the end.
(Photos Provided by the BLIA Walnut Subchapter)
