Penn Museum is Hosting a Lunar New Year Celebration With Dragon Dancers, K Pop Performers, Story Telling & More
The traditional New Year celebrations may have come to an end but many folks are still awaiting the Lunar New Year that’s observed by various Asian communities, including those of Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tibetan descent.The festivities traditionally commence with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and conclude 15 days later on the first full moon. Originating as a time for respite from agricultural work and for togetherness with loved ones, Lunar New Year incorporates diverse customs such as feasts, gift exchanges, lantern lighting, and offerings to deities and ancestors.
The Penn Museum (3260 South St.) is looking to ring in the new year with the 43rd annual Lunar New Year celebration presented in collaboration with the American Center for Asian Students and the National Association for Korean Schools. This special Culture Fest celebration will take place on Saturday January 27th from 11 am to 4 pm. Guests will get to enjoy an afternoon filled with live entertainment including the traditional Lion Dance, K-Pop, dances, martial arts demonstrations, story telling, and much more. Tickets for the Lunar New Year Culture Fest can be purchased here penn.museum .
11:00–11:30 am
Dotting the Eye Ceremony, Harrison Auditorium
Welcome remarks and the awakening of the lion to start the festivities.
11:30 am–12:00 pm
Little Mulan Dance Troupe, Harrison Auditorium
A traditional Chinese dance performance from the Great Wall Chinese School.
12:30–1:00 pm
Penn K Beats, Rainey Auditorium
Experience the electrifying energy of a K-pop performance.
1:00–1:30 pm
Chinese Traditional Dance and Music, Harrison Auditorium
A captivating performance of three traditional styles, including a Water Sleeve Solo Dance by WeiWei Ma, Peking Opera singing with live calligraphy demonstration by Song Fiehong, and a bian lian (face-changing) performance.
1:00–3:00 pm
Wonders of the Collection, Classroom L2
Asian objects related to the zodiac will be brought out from collection storage for this special viewing opportunity.
2:00–2:20 pm
Martial Arts and Tai Qi experience, Gallery 52
Embark on a mesmerizing journey into the world of martial arts and Tai Chi where skilled practitioners showcase precision, strength, and mindfulness.
2:30–2:45 pm
Korean Fan Dance Performance, Harrison Auditorium
A captivating and graceful traditional performance that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Korea.
3:00–3:15 pm
Storytelling, Widener Lecture Hall
The American Center for Asian Students will read Lunar New Year tales.
3:20–3:45 pm
Discussion about Traditional Lunar New Year Celebrations, Widener Lecture Hall
Members of the American Center for Asian Students will explore the similarities and differences in Lunar New Year celebrations across different countries.
3:50 pm
Lion Dance Finale, Warden Garden
Experience the grandeur of the Lion Dance Finale, a mesmerizing spectacle that concludes our Lunar New Year celebration with vibrant energy and traditional symbolism.
10:00 am–4:00 pm
Asia Gallery
Marketplace with Lunar New Year gifts
All-day art-making activities:
Drop in to create a vibrant paper lantern. Choose colors and symbols, and celebrate with this all-ages, hands-on experience.
Explore the wonders of the Asian zodiac and create a personalized headband to proudly display your zodiac year. Discover the unique characteristics associated with each animal sign while making a wearable keepsake.
Join in the celebration as you pen your aspirations and dreams, then watch as your wishes become part of a vibrant, collective display on our Dragon Chain.
