Celebrating Chinese New Year in Locke, California

Explore the historic town and its holiday festivities.

On Sunday, February 18, 2024, the Locke Foundation hosted its Chinese New Year festival in Locke, CA. The organization aims to preserve the Chinese community on the Delta through educational and cultural activities.

Founded in 1915, the small historic district is located on two strip blocks. They feature multiple museums, including those at the boarding house and the gambling house. Apart from a bar and two antique stores, the majority of the buildings are empty and unoccupied.

The festival’s main attractions were its myriad performances. Eastern Ways, a Sacramento-area martial arts school, hosted the dragon and lion dances, parading the bright, mythical creatures through the town. The company followed up these dances with tranquil Tai Chi demonstrations and choreographed displays of martial arts. Other presentations included a Chinese Zodiac puppet show, a Chinese musical band performance, and bonsai and calligraphy classes.

For more information about the town a half-hour away from campus, visit http://www.locke-foundation.org/about/.