On February 25th, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted a first-of-its-kind Lunar New Year celebration for Mississauga’s Westminster Court Retirement Home, with more than 60 senior residents in attendance. The warm-hearted event is part of an effort not only to localize Humanistic Buddhism but also to promote collaboration and camaraderie with the community. 

FGS Toronto’s library volunteers and the Dragon & Lion Dance Team joint effort on the project, the volunteer team arranged a series of traditional Chinese performances for an authentic cultural experience. Highlights of the performances included the Lion & Dragon Dance, Kung Fu Fan, Plucking the Green, and “Peacock Dance.” Every single session earned enthusiastic cheers and applause from the residents.  

Besides festive performances, members of the Dragon & Lion Dance Team spent time interacting with the attendees to enliven the joyful atmosphere. The event invited 9 residents to join in the dragon dance! A round of dance brought smiles and cheers to their fellow residents. Volunteers offered delicious Chinese snacks in gift box sets to the attendees. The leader of the library team, Wendy Lai, introduced the cultural significance and the ingredients of each delicacy. The explanation allowed the residents to choose food items according to their health conditions or to share with family and friends.  

The demeanours and feedback of the participants conveyed happiness and enjoyment; there were 25 attendees even signed up for a group Temple Tour!