On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the Chinese New Year celebration was held in Middletown, Orange County, New York, organized jointly by the Hope Mountain Chinese Association and the Orange County Asian Association. The event featured a variety of cultural performances, traditional delicacies, and a vibrant showcase of goods that left local dignitaries and community members impressed.
The Mayor of Middletown expressed his joy, saying, “Most importantly, I saw the excitement and pride on the faces of performers and spectators, which brought smiles to all of us.”
This year’s celebration took place at a local high school, with a larger scale and more spacious venue than the previous year. On a stage resembling a formal theater in the auditorium, local Chinese community artists showcased 35 stunning art performances, including dragon and lion dances, traditional dances, music, songs, and distinctive costume shows.
The first performance was a presentation of Hanfu called “Beauty of a Millennium”. Dozens of adult and child models showcased Chinese costumes dating back to as early as 2500 years ago up to hundreds of years ago during the Ming Dynasty, leaving the audience in awe. The commentator not only highlighted the characteristics of costumes throughout history but also briefly explained the historical background and traditional values of China, enlightening the audience.
Councilman Furman from Hope Mountain praised the costumes, likening them to a Broadway show.
“They are gorgeous! The costumes are as beautiful as a Broadway performance, truly amazing. My wife and I kept saying how special those little girls and boys are; we genuinely appreciate everything they have done.”
Furman continued, “I participate in Chinese community events every year, and each time they get bigger and better. If you have not attended these events, I highly recommend everyone to join in because it truly allows you to better understand the essence of Chinese culture—costumes, food, performances, everything is fantastic, and it’s right at your doorstep. I cannot express my gratitude in any other way, I am truly thankful.”
Mayor DeStefano of Middletown also attended the event, stating that celebrating various traditional Chinese festivals has become a new tradition in the city, contributing to diversity and prosperity.
“Over the past decade, we have opened our doors and hearts to welcome the Asian community. We welcome friendship, investment, job creation opportunities, and homeownership in our community.”
He added, “All of this is an integral part of our growing Middletown community and a critical part of our city’s revitalization efforts. Events like this provide an opportunity to showcase the beauty of the Chinese community’s culture. So we are truly grateful for organizing this event and bringing people to our community.”
State Assemblywoman Kay mentioned that she also attended the New Year celebration last year and witnessed the growth of the event.
“What the organizers have done is truly incredible,” she said. “I enjoyed some heart-healthy teas. There is so much to do here; you can admire the dancers, listen to the singers, witness beautiful costumes… We are very lucky to have the Chinese community as part of the Middletown community, and we are genuinely thankful.”
Orange County legislator Sutherland, a frequent attendee of Chinese community events, noted that it was her first time seeing a Hanfu performance.
“I really enjoyed seeing all the cultures and children. I loved seeing kids in their costumes; it’s impressive to see millennium-old attire,” she said. “And the delicious food… We are delighted to have this event here for all of us to enjoy.”
Next to the auditorium was a food hall transformed from a sports arena, where people could savor delicious dumplings, buns, noodles, and various Chinese dishes while immersing themselves in the rich cultural atmosphere.
Susan Caltencl, a Mexican-American resident, thoroughly enjoyed the cultural atmosphere of the celebration, finding resonance with traditional Chinese values.
“I love the performances, the music, learning about the culture and history; I also love the costumes they wear, seeing their evolution across different dynasties. I also saw the booths, their works and art pieces, and some foods and pastries; I am very happy to be able to attend this event.”
Caltencl added, “I also noticed the commonalities between our two cultures, such as respecting elders and cherishing family; it has always been that way, and I love this resonance.”
Mother Idali Concepcion, who lives nearby, brought her daughter to the event, expressing, “We appreciate things with culture, and we notice the diversity of cultures here in Middletown, seeing many Chinese people; it’s wonderful.”
Maurice Davoren, a resident on the outskirts of Middletown, made a special trip to attend the Chinese New Year celebration.
“I find the event very stunning, very fun, exploring different cultures,” he shared. “The food is also great, people are friendly, and it’s amazing to see what people are sharing with everyone. It’s fantastic.”
Davoren emphasized the importance of respecting traditions in modern society. “I have learned humility and dignity here; I really like it.”
A multitude of vendors gathered in the indoor soccer field of the school, offering handmade crafts, daily essentials, gifts, food, and various goods, alongside several state government offices and representatives of the police engaging with community members.
Victor Malvagno, a wooden crafts vendor from Pennsylvania, shared his enthusiasm for the event, showcasing many wooden crafts representing the Chinese New Year.
“My business is doing well here; I am getting busier, and I love this event. I hope it continues,” Malvagno said.
Analie Fabian, a customer expert from “Health First,” mentioned, “We are here to educate the community and provide them with information, engage in conversations. So far, everything has been successful.”
Among the various jewelry stalls, one stand showcasing a unique Geldrop technology preserving real flowers in pendants stood out.
The exhibition hall also housed many cultural institutions such as a bookstore, Falun Dafa Association, Longquan Temple, Qigong World, and Northern Schools; a children’s play area was set up in the hall for kids to enjoy.
As the evening descended, the celebration came to a successful conclusion. The President of Hope Mountain Chinese Association, Ms. Wu Hongliu, expressed gratitude to local elected officials, sponsors, and the public for their support, wishing everyone a healthy and joyous 2025.