The City of Tulsa’s Asian Affairs Commission will host Tulsa’s first community Lunar New Year event Feb. 1, 2025, from 6-9 p.m. at the 101 Archer Building in the Tulsa Arts District.

The event will highlight the Year of the Snake, featuring a Lion Dance team, China Roses dancers, complimentary food and drink, sparklers, lantern painting, kids’ crafts and raffle prizes. The event is free and open to the public.

“The Asian Affairs Commission is thrilled to present this inaugural event, marking the beginning of what promises to be a lasting community tradition for years to come," said Sarah Gilpin, Asian Affairs Commission Chair. "This is a special opportunity for the Asian community to showcase their vibrant culture to the city of Tulsa, while offering attendees a chance to explore and celebrate the rich heritage of Lunar New Year traditions that is honored by so many cultures.”

In addition to the free community event, Circle Cinema will have a special matinee of the award-winning movie, Parasite, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, at 3 p.m. to celebrate the Lunar New Year, Asian culture and bring awareness to the February 1st Lunar New Year event.

Lunar New Year is a cherished holiday that brings families and communities together to celebrate good fortune, prosperity, and renewal for the year ahead. With traditions like sharing red fortune envelopes (红包), decorating homes, wearing red and gold, and enjoying delicious foods, it’s a time to honor the past and embrace hope for the future. The celebration offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant traditions of several Asian countries and foster connections across cultures.

This year’s Lunar New Year sponsors include The City of Tulsa, The University of Tulsa, Williams, APIDA Tulsa, Tulsa Artist Fellowship, Philbrook, 100 Degree Grill & Hot Pot, Circle Cinema, Gigi’s Chinese Cuisine & Sushi Bar, and Kremee Taiyaki & Ice Cream.

About the Asian Affairs Commission

The Asian Affairs Commission (AAC) was established by City Ordinance in the fall of 2023. The Commission is comprised of 15 representatives from the Asian community in Tulsa and primarily serves to strengthen representation of Asian immigrant and refugee communities in Tulsa and serves in advisory capacity to the Mayor and the City Council. The Asian Affairs Commission is one of six Title V commissions that represent and advocate for women, Latinos, African Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and human rights in Tulsa.

To learn more and get involved, visit https://www.cityoftulsa.org/commissions or email [email protected].