Society Attends City of Toronto Lunar New Year Celebration

l-r: Society President Rebecca Caron, City of Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, Canadian Labour Congress Secretary-Treasurer Lily Chang

On January 30, labour, community, and civic leaders, including SUP/IFPTE Local 160 President Rebecca Caron, gathered at Toronto City Hall to celebrate Lunar New Year, ushering in the Year of the Snake with a vibrant and culturally rich reception. The event, co-hosted by Mayor Olivia Chow and the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, marked a historic occasion as the first Lunar New Year celebration hosted by the Mayor’s Office. 

Attendees were welcomed by Mayor Chow, who delivered remarks emphasizing the significance of Lunar New Year as a time of renewal, prosperity, and community solidarity. Guests also had the opportunity to learn about the cultural and historical importance of the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation in the Chinese zodiac. The celebration featured a dynamic program of traditional performances, including the iconic lion dance, which symbolizes good luck and wards off evil spirits.  

Lunar New Year, observed by millions across pan-Asian communities worldwide, follows the lunar calendar, meaning its date varies each year. In 2025, festivities officially begin on January 29, ushering in a season of family gatherings, festive meals, and community celebrations.