CCACC Dance Clubs performed at the Gaithersburg Tree Lighting Event

On the evening of Saturday, December 2, 2023, the City of Gaithersburg Jingle Jubilee took place to start the Christmas and New Year celebrations! The City Hall Concert Pavilion was filled with music, dance, song and a tree lighting ceremony with light displays. This annual event has been held since 1926 for 97 years, and added cultural diversity to its traditional program this year, attracting many residents. The outdoor lawn seating was packed, creating a lively atmosphere. Both children and adults eagerly anticipated the arrival of Santa Claus, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and other popular characters. Everyone took photos to capture these unforgettable holiday moments. The theme of this year's celebration features the diverse ethnic performances and a rich array of innovative activities.

The lighting ceremony commenced with the blessing from Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman and his administrative team. Mayor Ashman extended his holiday wishes to the upcoming Christmas and New Year, leading the citizens in lighting up the Christmas tree. The stage featured a candelabrum, and the event included a dazzling light show and captivating performances.

The opening performance was presented by the Gaithersburg High School Symphony Orchestra and Choir, followed by various ethnic dances, including Chinese, Indian, and Mexican dances. Three dance groups from CCACC performed Chinese folk dances under the guidance of Chiao-Chiao Liu, the director of the CCACC’s Community Services Center. The Adult Folk Dance Club started with the Tibetan dance "Mani Love Song," expressing the joyful spirit of the song and showcasing the rich Tibetan culture. Next, the Happy Dance Team from the CCACC Evergreen Club performed the Jiangnan-style dance "Poyang Lake Fisherman's Song," featuring each dancer with a bamboo hat, creating a vibrant and eye-catching performance. Finally, the East Breeze Dance Team from the Evergreen Club took the stage, dressed in traditional red costumes, resembling ancient heroic women. Their performance of the Beijing opera-inspired "Plum Blossom Ode" showcased the unique charm of Beijing-style dance.

CCACC has always actively participated in community activities, and its various services are well-regarded in the community. After the event, the Gaithersburg program director expressed gratitude to CCACC's dance groups for their wonderful performance, and stated that future programs would include performances from CCACC groups. Contributing to the community is our responsibility and obligation, and CCACC will continue to strive to serve the community, unite Chinese and Chinese-Americans, promote cultural exchange between East and West, and enhance the image of the Chinese community.

(Article and Photos by CCACC Community Service Center)