As the vibrant festivities of the Lunar New Year approach, excitement fills the air in Vancouver! This January 21st, the Vancouver Canucks are all set to host their seventh annual Lunar New Year Celebration. Coinciding with their game against the Buffalo Sabres, this special event promises to honor the ‘Year of the Snake’ with a blend of community spirit and thrilling hockey.
Vancouver, B.C.
Located in the heart of Canada, Vancouver is known for its rich cultural diversity, and the Lunar New Year Celebration is a great example of this. The Canucks are dedicated to fostering community connections and celebrating various cultures through their events. This year, they are particularly focusing on the symbolism of the Year of the Snake, which represents reflection and growth—qualities that resonate with many people.
Celebration Highlights
Fans attending the game can look forward to an exciting lineup of activities and surprises! Here’s what you can expect:
- The first 5,000 fans will receive special Lunar New Year mini hockey sticks, a fantastic keepsake for any hockey lover!
- A new merchandise collection designed by local artist Nicole Jang is available for purchase, featuring a stunning snake-themed Canucks skate logo in vibrant gold and red.
- The pre-game festivities will kick off with a lively Lunar New Year party on the plaza, showcasing live music and interactive photo opportunities to connect with fellow fans.
- During the game, the celebration will feature performances by local artists, including guest host Nhi Do and exciting acts from the SYL Wushu Taiji Qigong Institute, along with music from Shea Liu and MAMAKEISH POP.
Community Support and Engagement
The Vancouver Canucks are also making a significant impact with a generous donation of $20,000 to the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation. This contribution not only assists the foundation in its ongoing efforts but also reinforces the commitment of the Canucks to support and uplift the community. Michael Doyle, president of Canucks Sports & Entertainment, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives, stating that they help promote diversity and foster connections within the community.
Good Fortune Through Food
But wait—there’s more to celebrate! In addition to the hockey festivities, some Vancouver restaurants and bakeries are preparing special menus to honor the Lunar New Year. It’s a perfect way to kick off the Year of the Snake with some delicious culinary offerings. Here are a few highlights:
- Notch8 at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver: Enjoy a delightful Lunar New Year afternoon tea until February 23, priced at $72 for adults.
- Heritage Restaurant and Bar: They’re partnering with Mamainthekitchen to host Lunar New Year dinners on January 19 and 20, with tickets for $98 per person.
- Nourish: This restaurant is offering Chinese New Year Feast Kits for pre-order, priced between $88 and $178, perfect for a cozy celebration at home.
- Beaucoup Bakery: Get ready for a large Year of the Snake pastry collection starting January 20, with advance orders for their cakes available from January 25.
Workshops and Culinary Pop-Ups
For those interested in diving deeper into the culinary experience, several local establishments are hosting workshops and pop-up events:
- DD Mau: Hosting a Bánh Chưng Workshop on January 26, tickets available for $58.
- Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts: Offering a special Lunar New Year cooking class on February 1, perfect for food enthusiasts at $188.
- Taste of Chinatown: Join culinary pop-ups at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre on February 1 and 2, celebrating the rich flavors of East Asian cuisine.
A Time for Reflection and Growth
This Lunar New Year is not just about celebrations; it’s also a time for reflection and seeking growth in the coming year. The Year of the Snake encourages individuals to look inward and consider their personal journeys while also sharing joy with their community. The Canucks’ celebration is a great opportunity for fans of all ages to come together, celebrate culture, enjoy hockey, and make lasting memories.
So mark your calendars for January 21st and prepare for a day filled with excitement and community spirit as Vancouver embraces the Year of the Snake!