Asian New Year Festival celebrates Asian Cultures with performances, fashion show and more

At the event, attendees saw cultural performances, such as two dancing dragons and a traditional Asian-style mascot from Ascendant Lion Dance in Grand Rapids. The Golden Tiger Kung Fu Academy presented a martial arts display, and there was even a cultural fashion show, showcasing the traditional dress from a variety of Asian countries.

"This is my second year attending, and that first fun, eye-opening experience has brought me back again. It's truly amazing to see some of the skills these young people practice within their culture compared to my American one," said Zach Sommerdyke, a GVSU psychology student.

Allendale business Bamboo Express atered the event, providing dinner in bento boxes, a Japanese-style lunch box. During dinner, attendees could participate in some of the interactive booths. Some included a chance to get a henna tattoo, have their fortune read, practice origami or play ddakji, a South Korean game.

"When people think of Asia, they often think of China, Japan or Korea, but Asia is so much more than that. Even within the Asian community, there are countries and cultures that are overlooked, and we wanted to highlight these," said Elise Tchieng, one of the engagement coordinators with the Asian Student Union. "The Asian New Year Festival is a perfect platform for showcasing these, as it attracts a large crowd of students and community members. As a Hmong woman, I understand what it feels like to belong to a lesser-known ethnicity, and the recognition of my culture brings me a unique sense of pride and joy."

More upcoming events like this can be found on the Office of Multicultural Affairs website.

Two students involved in the festival shared how they celebrate their culture on campus year-round. Read on to hear their stories.