North Shore High School’s 3rd Annual Lunar New Year
On February 10, 2026, North Shore High School’s Asian Student Alliance (ASA) proudly hosted its 3rd Annual Districtwide Lunar New Year Celebration, drawing hundreds of attendees commemorating the Year of the Horse. The ASA along with the HS SGO, faculty and families worked tirelessly to expand the event, creating an even more immersive and vibrant cultural experience.
The Lunar New Year celebration began two years ago, marking the largest Asian cultural event in North Shore history. This year, the event built upon that success, offering a dynamic lineup of traditional performances, interactive activities, and authentic cuisine to celebrate Asian heritage while fostering inclusivity and education. Mandarin teacher Cynthia Li said, "This event represents more than just a celebration - it’s a testament to student leadership, cultural appreciation, and community connection. ASA is a highly student-led club, and none of our events could have happened without the dedicated effort of our members. It was great to see students of Asian heritage and those who love Asian culture in different grade levels showcase their talent on stage.”
The evening was filled with engaging cultural activities, including lantern making, printmaking, sugar drawing demonstrations, and a variety of interactive games such as “Guess the Candy,” ‘Chopstick Challenge,” and “Spin the Wheel.” Attendees also enjoyed traditional Asian cuisine while capturing memories at the event’s photo booth and souvenir stands. The hallways were filled with excitement as students and families participated in games under a festive atmosphere.
The night was brought to life by a series of incredible performances from talented students and community members. The Asian Student Alliance would like to express its deepest gratitude to all performers, including, Weiyu Zhang (Ma Yi La Variations), Luke Feldman and Augustus Ha (Childhood), Hannah Xiu, Joyce Cai, Nicole Zhang, Phoebe Li Mou, Quoia Zhang (Joyful Riders of the Grassland), Sea Cliff Tai Chi Club (Tai Chi Presentation), Zhitong Liu (Chasing Dreams), Sea Cliff Elementary K-Pop Club (daensu), Anne Kelly & Mika Ikawa (Jasmine Flower), NSMS Mandarin Club (Mandarin Mix-Up Mash), Amelia Luo (Cute Snake), Children’s Choir (Conductor Jiaqi Zhang, Simple Happiness). Their dedication and passion were evident in every performance, making the celebration a truly memorable experience.
The Asian Student Alliance extended a heartfelt thank you to all those who made the celebration possible. They expressed their gratitude to the Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Zublionis, and Assistant Superintendents Dr. Smyth and Mr. Pappas for supporting an environment where cultural traditions are valued and embraced. Special recognition was given to Principal Mr. Contreras and World Language Department Director Ms. Aguiar for their leadership, as well as to Mandarin teachers Ms. Li, Ms. Tracy Cai, Ms. Jingwen Cai, Ms. Yang, Ms. Huang, and Mr. Schultz for their dedication. The event would not have been possible without the teachers and staff who contributed their time and effort, the custodial staff, all of whom played a vital role in ensuring the event’s success.
The ASA also expressed appreciation for the unwavering support from volunteer parents and students from ASA, the Mandarin Club, HS SGO, and the World Language Honor Society. Their efforts, alongside the generosity of parents who donated food, Zouji Dumpling House, and @Boba, helped make the night both memorable and meaningful.
With such an incredible turnout and overwhelming community support, the Asian Student Alliance looks forward to continuing this tradition, bringing students, families, and faculty together again next year to celebrate the beauty and richness of Asian cultures.
Photos by North Shore HS Student: Ellamarie Macari Mitchell