Lunar New Year Festivities Span San Jose, San Anselmo, Palo Alto

San Jose kicked off its Lunar New Year celebrations with a vibrant Tet parade and festival, marking a return after a 15-year hiatus, organized by the Vietnamese American Roundtable and local student groups. The parade featured lion dances, cultural performances, and was attended by hundreds, highlighting the significance of preserving Vietnamese traditions. Philip Nguyen, an organizer, emphasized the importance of this year as it marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, urging the younger generation to continue these cultural practices. The festivities included an outdoor market with traditional Vietnamese goods and events at local malls, fostering community engagement and excitement. In parallel, other cities like Palo Alto and San Anselmo are also hosting Lunar New Year events, showcasing cultural performances and activities for families. Overall, the celebrations reflect a strong commitment to honoring cultural heritage while bringing communities together.