(January 28-29, 2023) – Since 2010, the Riverside Lunar Festival has been a celebration of Asian American culture for the city of Riverside and the Inland Empire. The event will be back at the same location in beautiful Downtown Riverside. From red lanterns to lion dancing, everyone is welcome to come and experience the festive atmosphere of the Year of the Rabbit!
The Rabbit is the fourth of the 12 Zodiacs and January 2023 is the beginning of a new Lunar Calendar. In many Asian cultures, the rabbit is regarded as driven and kind. It’s also strongly linked with the moon in mythology as the Moon Goddess Chang’e holds a rabbit as a companion. Together, let us celebrate the new year’s fortunes.
The event will kick off with an opening ceremony on Mission Inn Ave from 11:30am-1:00pm on Saturday Jan 28. The opening ceremony will include VIP guest speakers Mayor Pro Tem Clarissa Cervantes, Riverside County Supervisor Karen Spiegel, Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39), and Army Major General Mark Toy. Be sure to check out the Taiko Drummers, Lion & Dragon Dance performances, and Shaolin Kungfu.
At the stage, performers from all around LA will showcase their talents during the event. Must watch shows include, traditional Chinese dance by Inland HuaXia ECAA, Tang Arts and Performing Studios, K-Pop, traditional Chinese guzheng, Yali Dancing Studios, and Japanese Taiko Drums from UCR. There will also be martial arts demonstration from Filipino Martial Arts and so much more.
Food is always a central part of any Lunar New Year celebration. This year will host some of the best and unique food vendors in the IE. Be sure to come with an empty stomach to enjoy unique bites and mouthwatering drinks. Craving lamb skewers seasoned with cumin, steamed buns and dumplings, or flame grilled squid the size of your face? You’ve come to the right place!
At the marketplace, local and regional artisans will be on hand selling traditional and modern goods, including hand cut paper art, handmade jewelry and clothing, terra cotta dolls, Japanese dolls, and hand-written calligraphy from China and Vietnam. Also be sure to check out local artists drawing caricatures, manga, henna, and custom paintings.
Young children can experience the fun-zone inflatable rides, including a 40’ obstacle course, 20’ tall rock wall climb, and princess (Disney) jumper among many more. Kids can also experience the Japanese game machine corner and unique prizes you can win. Kids can come away with a unique Lunar New Year experience.
“This event brings the community together by bringing people to downtown to celebrate and I look forward to celebrating the New Year with everyone at downtown Riverside” says Panana Events President Eric Luan.
The 2023 Riverside Lunar Festival is presented by Panana events with support from the The City of Riverside, ICAA, and is sponsored by Yaamava’ Resorts.
Event date and time:
Saturday Jan 28 2022 11am-8pm
Sunday Jan 29 2022 11am-7pm
Address : Downtown Riverside (3527 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501)
Admission is free and parking is free.
visit: pananaevents.com, instagram.com/pananaevents,
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