The Asian & Pacific Islander Coalition at Full Sail University recently hosted a Lunar New Year Event to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. The lively event was hosted at The Treehouse venue in collaboration with the Chinese American Association of Central Florida, which showcased impressive calligraphy techniques and a traditional dragon dance. Students and Full Sail advisors organized the event, handing out food to patrons, decorating the venue in red and gold, and hosting various competitions throughout the night, all while engaging with and educating the attendees about the holiday.

“Lunar New Year is so important because it gives a different perspective of celebrations in other countries, and it gives us the opportunity to spotlight Asian culture and recognize the diversity that exists within our community,” said International Student Coordinator Justin Francisco. “We’re here to let international students and all those who celebrate Lunar New Year know that their celebrations are important, and we recognize and celebrate that at Full Sail.”

The event featured live performances from local community members, tables educating the crowd on how different countries celebrate the holiday, live calligraphy from a variety of Asian cultures, and a sampling of Asian cuisine. Attendees took to the stage for karaoke, gathered around tables to play games, and more. The venue was filled with laughter as the crowd competed for prizes in a lively craft competition, and many went home with free plates of food, tea and senbei, rice cakes, and a newfound understanding of how different cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year.