Resounding drums and vibrant lion dances filled Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto on February 22 (the sixth day of the Lunar New Year), as nearly 400 guests gathered for the 2026 New Year Cultural Showcase, themed “Harmony and Coexistence, Galloping Towards Success.” Families and community members came together to celebrate the season through culture, artistry, and shared blessings.

The program opened with the powerful 24 Festive Drums presented by the Temple’s Lion and Dragon Dance Team. More than 20 young performers, aged 5 to 17, delivered a synchronized and spirited performance that reflected youthful vitality and meaningful intergenerational continuity. The auspicious lion dance followed, weaving through the Main Shrine and offering blessings of peace and prosperity for the Year of the Horse.

Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan expressed sincere appreciation to volunteers, performers, and instructors for their dedication, encouraging the community to cultivate harmony through compassion and inclusivity. BLIA Toronto Chapter President Kevin Cao highlighted the spirit of the “Four Givings,” inspiring members to embody coexistence and shared flourishing in daily life.

The showcase featured a diverse array of performances. A pipa ensemble offered bright, expressive melodies, while a wellness dance group presented Spring Fills the World. The Toy Band performed uplifting songs of hope andc onnection. Under the direction of Mr. Ken Chen, the erhu ensemble presented festive selections, including a spirited solo of Horse Racing, echoing the Year of the Horse theme. A combined ensemble of erhu, guzheng, and yangqin further expressed musical harmony.

The guzheng ensemble performed The Great Compassion Mantra and Lighting the Lamp, highlighting the depth and elegance of Buddhist and traditional Chinese music. The finale featured the Buddha’s Light Toronto Choir, conducted by Ms. Monie Leung, presenting New Year’s Prayer and Light of Hope.

Through artistic excellence and cultural vibrancy, the Cultural Showcase demonstrated the Temple’s commitment to propagating the Dharma through culture, bringing together community spirit and the dynamic expression of Humanistic Buddhism in Toronto.