Since returning to Temecula on a more frequent basis, I've heard of these cultural events, yet this was the first that fit into our schedule.

The Temecula Valley Museum’s Second Saturday program returns with The Year of The Rat Chinese New Year Celebration. This monthly event celebrates world culture with complimentary refreshments, crafts, activities, and live entertainment.
"The museum invites guests to enjoy a variety of Chinese food and refreshments (while supplies last). Guests can also experience entertainment and gain cultural insight through multiple performances by The Temecula Chinese School. Performances include a Dragon & Lion Dance, Folk Music, Children's readings, Calligraphy demonstrations, and a presentation of Chinese dresses representative of the 1920's era."

The music radiating from the Guzheng added to the cultural ambiance.

The Lion Dancers were pretty adorable, too.
I was particularly impressed with the fashion aspect of the day. These models were lovely in their cheongsams, also known as a qipao, a close-fitting dress that originated in 1920s Shanghai. It quickly became a fashion phenomenon that was adopted by movie stars and schoolgirls alike. The history of this iconic garment reflects the rise of the modern Chinese woman in the twentieth century and starts with the overthrow of the Qing dynasty and founding of the Republic of China in 1912. In the mid-1910s and early 1920s, Chinese intellectuals began to revolt against traditional values, calling instead for a democratic and egalitarian society based on Western standards, including the emancipation and education of women. Foot-binding, the painful practice of binding young girl’s feet to prevent their growth, was outlawed.  This dress, to me, shows how forward thinking China once was. Interesting!
We dined on egg rolls, listened to lovely melodies, people-watched and just enjoyed being out in it all. What a gift the City of Temecula offers the community. We look forward to the next cultural experience and the opportunity to make the world just a little bit smaller.