Remember where you are and why you are here. Tacomas Lunar New Year founders reflect on 35 years

Tacoma's Lunar New Year festival, celebrating its 35th anniversary, highlights the enduring cultural significance of this Asian tradition in the community. Founders Lee Lee Lam and Lisa Mathusz started the event in 1990 to foster camaraderie among Vietnamese immigrants, and it has since evolved into the largest Lunar New Year celebration in the South Sound. The festival attracts thousands of attendees from diverse cultural backgrounds, reinforcing the importance of community and inclusivity. This year's celebration coincides with Washington's recognition of Lunar New Year as an official holiday, marking a significant milestone for the Asian community. Lam and Mathusz's personal stories illustrate the challenges faced by immigrants in preserving their cultural heritage while adapting to American life.

With a focus on cultural sharing and tradition, the festival features food, lion dances, and performances that invite the public to engage with the local Vietnamese community. As they prepare to hand over the reins to the next generation, Lam and Mathusz emphasize the necessity of remembering one's cultural roots in an ever-evolving society. The festival remains a vibrant testament to the resilience and spirit of Tacoma's diverse communities.