On February 15, the Oyster River community gathered at Oyster River Middle School (ORMS) to celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse. The Spring Festival is one of the most important holidays observed in many Asian countries and communities around the world. Celebrated over 15 days, the festivities center on family gatherings, traditional foods, and honoring cultural traditions.
This year’s event marked the highest level of community participation to date, featuring more than 20 booths representing student groups and programs, including the Oyster River High School (ORHS) Chamber Orchestra, National Art Honor Society, French Club, and One World Language.
The festival was organized by the Oyster River Mandarin Club planning committee, with students and staff meeting monthly throughout the school year to brainstorm activities, coordinate logistics, and develop fundraising ideas. Their efforts helped create a vibrant, welcoming celebration for all ages.
One of the day’s most anticipated highlights was a professional lion dance performance, made possible through funds raised by the Mandarin Club. Performed by a team from Boston, the lion dance is a traditional art form symbolizing power, wisdom, and protection, and it captivated attendees throughout the performance.
Parents, guardians, and community members also played a vital role by sharing authentic Asian dishes, adding a personal and meaningful cultural dimension to the celebration and helping make the Spring Festival a true community-wide experience.
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Traditional and homemade Asian food options were available to guests.
Activities and delicacies were provided by Mandarin Club students, their families, and community members.
Lion dancers from Boston delighted the crowd during the event.