IPAC Chinese New Year Cultural Community Fair

On February 15, 2025, the International Psychology Association of Canada (IPAC) proudly hosted its Chinese Spring Festival Cultural Community Fair, which concluded with tremendous success. Hundreds of families and nearly 400 community members gathered to celebrate the Lunar New Year in an atmosphere rich with cultural heritage and heartfelt connection. Each participant found their own unique “New Year memory” at the event. As IPAC has always upheld—building bridges through culture and strengthening communities through connection—this day was not only a celebration of the Spring Festival, but also a celebration of meaningful human connection.

Distinguished Guests and Community Leaders

MP-Vincent Ho & IPAC Vice-President Jessica

The event was hosted by Shawn Liang and Ye Tingting, with a vibrant musical performance by the Duomimi Band.

We were deeply honored to welcome distinguished community leaders, including:

Member of Parliament Vincent Ho
Richmond Hill Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan
Councillor Simon Cui

In addition, Richmond Hill Mayor David West kindly sent a congratulatory letter in advance to wish the event great success.

MP Vincent Ho personally distributed red envelopes at the booths, offering warm New Year blessings to attendees. Deputy Mayor Godwin Chan delivered an inspiring and heartfelt speech, wishing everyone prosperity and success in the Year of the Horse, and joined participants in writing traditional “Fu” characters to share good fortune. Councillor Simon Cui engaged warmly with booth activities, enjoyed tea tastings, and even performed traditional Kunqu opera, bringing the festive atmosphere to a vibrant peak.

Ink, Craft, and Cultural Heritage

The Traditional Culture Zone remained lively throughout the event.

At the calligraphy station, long tables were laid with red paper and ink, filling the air with the fragrance of brush and tradition. Participants carefully wrote the character “福” (fortune), some with confident strokes, others trying for the first time with focused determination. Parents guided their children hand-in-hand, teaching them how to hold and move the brush. In those moments, the seeds of cultural heritage were quietly planted in young hearts.

Nearby, the pottery experience booth invited participants to shape clay with their hands. Though a simulated experience, the focus and dedication on each face reflected the joy of creating something meaningful for the New Year.

At the paper quilling workshop, colorful paper strips were transformed into symbolic horses representing “success and achievement.” Each carefully crafted piece became a unique New Year keepsake.

As the Exclusive Title Sponsor, LingoAce presented lacquer fan and bookmark marbling experiences, which quickly became crowd favorites. Colors bloomed and swirled in water before transferring onto fans and bookmarks, creating one-of-a-kind designs filled with delightful surprise. Participants proudly held their finished creations, their smiles reflecting genuine accomplishment.

Musical Performances

The Duomimi Band, composed of passionate retired musicians, delivered one of the event’s most dynamic highlights. Their performance featured more than ten beloved Chinese and international classics. From the celebratory energy of Spring Festival Overture to the elegance of Waves of the Danube, and the heartfelt notes of Auld Lang Syne, the music elevated the festive spirit to its fullest expression.

Floral Art, Tea Culture, and Holistic Wellness

Angel Daisy Society’s floral art charity workshop provided one of the most serene corners of the fair. Through fan-based floral arrangements and plant-inspired gifts, participants explored how art and nature can nurture emotional expression and well-being. Each handcrafted arrangement carried a personal New Year wish.

At the Jiāmu Tea Space booth, the gentle aroma of tea lingered in the air. Premium teas such as Da Hong Pao were prepared with traditional ceremony—warming the cups, steeping the leaves, and pouring each infusion with care. Attendees paused to savor both tea and conversation, as if time itself had slowed.

The “Mirror of Formlessness” booth offered New Year guidance and reflection, drawing a steady line of visitors seeking insight and inspiration for the year ahead. SuOn Academy and Dr. Rachel Zhang provided on-site consultations, answering families’ questions with thoughtful expertise.

The face-painting station by K.T Face Painting became one of the most vibrant areas of the fair. Flowers, butterflies, horses, and auspicious clouds were delicately painted onto children’s faces, turning them into living works of art.

Meanwhile, Panda Takeout’s milk tea booth remained consistently popular, offering warm sweetness on a winter afternoon. The photobooth captured countless joyful moments—families, friends, and loved ones gathered to take their first New Year photo together.

At the Giving Tree nonprofit reading corner, children and parents browsed books, rediscovering timeless classics and the simple joy of reading together.

Volunteer Spirit and Lucky Draw

IPAC and Roots & Future volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the venue, warmly assisting attendees and ensuring the smooth operation of every activity.

The IPAC prize redemption area remained busy as participants eagerly exchanged tokens for small gifts—a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the community’s support.

The lucky draw sessions brought repeated waves of excitement. Prizes included:

Elegant gifts from SuOn Academy
Premium teas from Jiāmu Tea Space
Counselling vouchers and wellness gifts from Lingyu International Psychology Centre
Floral art pieces from Angel Daisy Society

Each announcement was met with enthusiastic applause and celebration.

Exclusive Title Sponsor

Special Thanks to LingoAce

As a global leader in Chinese language education, LingoAce is dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and helping overseas families connect with their linguistic and cultural roots. Their generous support enriched this event and strengthened the meaningful integration of culture and community service.

Community Partners

IPAC sincerely thanks:

Roots & Future, Lingyu International Psychology Centre, Mellow Wellness, Giving Tree, Mirror of Formlessness, and Dr. Rachel Zhang.

We also extend heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated IPAC volunteers for their coordination and support (Photo credits: Holly, Yida).

We are deeply honored to have received official New Year greeting letters from Members of Parliament and municipal leaders, recognizing IPAC’s contributions to the community.