Held on March 7 at Segerstrom Concert Hall, the 2026 Orange County Lantern Festival drew a huge crowd despite strong winds.
Showcasing a vibrant blend of Eastern and Western traditions and Asian and American cultures, the festive celebration welcomed thousands of attendees and filled the venue with nonstop energy.
Co-hosted by the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center and Pacific Symphony, the Lantern Festival marked its 11th year.
From indoor stage performances and hands-on cultural activities throughout the building to outdoor plaza showcases and art displays, this much-anticipated celebration delivered a dazzling feast of culture, art, and community.
Voices Welcome Lanterns Glow
The indoor lobby came alive as the Cheng Yin Children’s Choir, led by conductor Ying-Chien Wang, filled the Lantern Festival with angelic voices.
Colorful lanterns, a Year of the Horse display, and a festive Chinese archway turned the lobby into a popular photo spot.
The indoor stage was co-hosted by Dr. Chier Pan and Ron Banks, with sign language interpretation throughout.
Irvine Chinese School student Nina and the puppet Leopold also gave a playful introduction to the Lantern Festival.
Lions Rise Rhythms Ring
The show opened with three lively lions leaping and unveiling spring couplets. Performers including the South Coast Chinese Orchestra, Pacific Symphony Youth Saxophone Ensemble, and String Octet blended Eastern and Western sounds in a vibrant festive program.
Jodaiko delivered thunderous rhythms, while the Chinese Dance Company of Southern California, Thuy Van Dance Group, Korean American Youth Performing Artists, and Lạc Hồng Performing Arts Group showcased the beauty of diverse cultures through dance.
DooDream and the Irvine Choir added warmth and joy with their clear, uplifting voices.
Floors Inspire Crafts Delight
Hands-on cultural activities filled every floor with fun and discovery.
The first floor featured live calligraphy and a family photo booth; the second offered paper lantern and fan crafts; the third included a live Vietnamese folk game, traditional rubbing art, and the “Light the Future” exhibit; and the fourth featured Korean drumming and cherry blossom art.
From floor to floor, guests enjoyed the festive spirit through art, play, and tradition.
Martial Might Dragons Fly
Outdoor performances were just as lively. The South Coast Chinese Wushu Team energized the crowd with dynamic martial arts routines.
Jeong Arts and Culture impressed with a Korean fashion show, fan dance, and drum dance, while student performers from Irvine Chinese Immersion Academy and Capistrano Unified School District brought youthful energy to the stage.
The Irvine Senior Harmonica Ensemble performed a warm New Year medley, Sonata Music Studio sang elegant Vietnamese songs, and the Chinese Dance Company of Southern California amazed the audience with graceful dance.
A pipa solo and drum performance by the South Coast Chinese Orchestra drew strong applause. The event ended on a high note as a dragon danced through the stage and crowd.
Friends Gather, Cultures Shine
Pacific Symphony Board Chair Arthur Ong said the Lantern Festival symbolizes light and hope, bringing families and communities together while reflecting Orange County’s cultural diversity.
He thanked the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center and expressed hope for even closer ties with the Asian Pacific community.
South Coast Chinese Cultural Center CEO Yulan Chung said the Center has partnered with Pacific Symphony on the Lantern Festival since 2016, using music, art, and cultural exchange to bring communities together.
She also wished everyone a joyful and peaceful Year of the Horse.
Irvine City Councilmember Melinda Liu said the Lantern Festival not only brings Asian culture into the mainstream, but also helps more people appreciate Asian traditions.
Distinguished guests included Betty Shiau, Director of the OC Cultural Center of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in LA, Michael Tou, Chief of Staff to California Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris, Irvine City Councilmembers Melinda Liu,William Go.
