When a tradition is not widely recognized, how do you bring awareness to it? For the Vietnamese Association at the University of Memphis, the answer was simple: host an event that immerses others in their culture.
“We just wanted to spread the word about Lunar New Year and the traditions behind it because not a lot of people know about it,” said Kenny Huynh, vice president of the Vietnamese Association.
On January 29, the Vietnamese Association hosted a Lunar New Year celebration in the University Center Ballroom, inviting students and faculty to experience the holiday firsthand.
“We wanted to show that anyone can be a part of our culture,” Huynh said.
The event featured a variety of engaging activities, including trivia, comedic skits, a fashion show, and a traditional lion dance performance. Guests also enjoyed an array of Vietnamese cuisine, with options such as gyoza, egg rolls, fried vegetables, and hibachi fried rice.
“It was an excellent representation of Vietnamese culture,” said Drew Richardson, a member of the University of Memphis campus outreach program.
For many attendees, the event left a lasting impression.
“The people were very kind and welcoming, and I will definitely be returning next year,” said Sam Shoemaker, a student at the University of Memphis.
