2026 BWNC Lunar New Year Festival
Spirit of the Dragon, Vitality of the Horse — A Grand Celebration for the Whole Family
As we bid farewell to the Year of the Dragon, we leap forward into a vibrant new chapter. Bliss & Wisdom Northern California (BWNC) warmly invites you and your family to a festive day of Sacred Blessings, Traditional Arts, Family Fun, and Authentic Flavors.
Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026 (The 6th Day of the Lunar New Year)
Location: BWNC San Jose Center (1338 Ridder Park Dr, San Jose, CA 95131)
Registration: [Insert Link]
Whether you wish to rediscover the nostalgic traditions of your childhood or offer prayers of peace for your loved ones, our carnival is a sanctuary of warmth and joy. Join us as we welcome a Year of the Horse filled with abundance and vitality!
I. Sacred New Year Blessings | Vitality & Peace (9:30 AM – 11:30 AM)
In Chinese culture, the "Horse" symbolizes progress and success. Our morning session features a beautifully adorned shrine open for public blessings, offering a serene start to your year.
Auspicious Fortune Bags: The first 500 guests can receive a complimentary "Fortune Bag" (available in themes like Wealth, Peace, Health, or Good Fortune) on a first-come, first-served basis. These scented sachets can be offered before the Buddha as a traditional Incense Offering.
The Full Merit Offering: Participate in our special blessing circuit. Those who complete the Ten Great Offerings(Light, Water, Flower, Incense, Fruit, Tea, Food, Pearls, Jewels, and Treasure Garments) can receive symbolic keepsakes such as "Treasure Basins," embroidered horse charms, or lucky lanterns.
The Peace Bell & Wisdom Divination: Ring our ceremonial "Peace Bell" three times to herald Health, Safety, and Success. You may also draw a Guanyin Oracle card for spiritual guidance and peace of mind in the coming year.
Mindful Sutra Transcribing: Visit our quiet room to transcribe the Heart Sutra. This meditative practice allows you to channel focus into a prayer for protection, which can then be presented as a Treasure Offering.
II. Folk Heritage Festival | Traditional New Year Spirit (11:30 AM – 3:00 PM)
Step into a lively marketplace atmosphere where heritage crafts and classic games bring the festive spirit to life for all ages.
Artisan Handcrafts: Experience live demonstrations by master calligrapher Mr. Wang. Try your hand at traditional paper-cutting, "Zodiac Horse" sugar painting, clay modeling, or creating festive snowflake ornaments.
Festive Games & Prizes: Enjoy classic carnival fun including riddles, balloon twisting, and archery. Complete our "Stamp Challenge" for a chance to win special New Year gifts and grand prizes!
Cultural Stage Performances: The festivities kick off with powerful ceremonial drumming, followed by a lineup of talented Bay Area groups performing traditional songs and dances.
III. Family Connection | Cherished Moments Together
The Spring Festival is a time for bonding. Our Parent-Child Interaction Zone focuses on shared learning and heartwarming memories.
"Cute Horse" DIY Workshop: Use clay, cardstock, and markers to create custom "Little Horse" figurines or handmade New Year cards with your children.
The "Acts of Love" Challenge: Engage in interactive storytelling and challenges where children complete small "missions" of gratitude for their parents. Past attendees have found this to be a deeply moving experience that strengthens family bonds.
IV. A Taste of the New Year | Gourmet Food Zone
Recharge and treat your taste buds to a curated selection of authentic Lunar New Year delicacies.
Traditional Savory & Sweet Cakes: Pan-seared Radish, Taro, and Red Bean cakes—classic treats representing "growth and promotion" in the new year.
Regional Comfort Foods: Warm your soul with Wontons in Signature Chili Oil, savory Beijing-Style Crepes (Jianbing), and authentic Hot and Sour Soup.
Festival Snacks: Golden egg tarts, fragrant tea eggs, velvety silken tofu (Douhua), cotton candy, and fresh Boba Milk Tea.
Specialty Stops: Explore the Joyful Gatherings New Year Sets, the Heartland (Xin Tian) Marketplace for organic gifts, and unique handcrafted beverages from the Orange Cat Experience.
V. Event Details & Visitor Tips
Time: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Admission: Free. Some activities and food require a consumption card, available for purchase on-site with CASH.
Parking & Registration: Please register one spot per vehicle. All guests are eligible for a Fortune Bag while supplies last.
Sustainability: In the spirit of mindfulness, we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottles and utensils. Hot water and seating are provided.
Safety: Please ensure children are supervised at all times and keep track of personal belongings.
Let the bells of blessing and the joy of community welcome a bright new journey. You don't need to travel far to find the heart of the New Year. We look forward to celebrating with you!
Register Here https://www.eventbrite.com