Chinese New Year kicks off plethora of international events at the fairgrounds

North Carolina has diverse demographics, especially in urban areas around international corporations and universities. Like myself, many non-North Carolinians have found this state to be a beautiful, fun and gracious place to live. And we decide to stay. For me, one state away isn’t a big deal. But for many, Southern culture is literally foreign to them. In addition to making new friends, they find comfort in sharing their heritage through events that spotlight their culture.

Saturday’s celebration of the Chinese Year of the Snake will be the first of several international celebrations taking place at the fairgrounds this year. The Chinese New Year celebration will feature many Chinese and Asian cultural performances, such as lion and dragon dances, vocal talents and traditional Chinese music, food and crafts. The event, sponsored by the  Triangle Area Chinese American Society, takes place in the Expo Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $8 at the door for adults or free to children ages 6 and under.

Mark your calendar to attend other upcoming international events at the fairgrounds*:

• Feb. 3 – Vietnamese New Year Celebration
• March 19 – Persian New Year Celebration (corrected date)
• March 23-24 – IndiaFest
• April 20-21 – Lebanese Festival
• May 4 – N.C. Persian Festival
• June 15 – World Refugee Day
• Sept. 20-22 – Greek Festival
• Sept. 28 – Chinese Harvest Moon Festival
• Dec. 7 – Scandinavian Christmas Fair

*Dates are subject to change. Please check before attending.