Celebrate Saṅkrānta in Long Beach

For the first time, Saṅkrānta, the New Year’s celebration observed throughout much of Southeast Asia, will be officially celebrated in Long Beach, Saturday April 1 at Long Beach City College Pacific Coast Campus.

Attendees can also look forward to traditional dances, diverse and delicious food options as well as merchandise vendors. For families, there will be activities specifically designed for kids as well as an inflatable playground.

For both kids and adults alike, there will also be a variety of new year traditional games such as Leng Chhoung, Bos Angkunh and Teanh Prot. And after all that, this being a New Year celebration, there will be a great party to welcome the new year from 5-10 p.m.

“It’s a New Year’s celebration, so we’re going to celebrate,” - Councilwoman Suely Saro

Saro, the first Cambodian American elected to office in Long Beach, said it was important to her and those she partnered with to organize an event that would display the exceptional diversity and inclusivity of the community.

To that end, the celebration will also include African American & Latino programs and performers, highlighting the cultural contributions of these communities to Saṅkrānta.

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Steve Lowery