On September 28th, the “Chinese Renaissance Fest” event held by the “Chinese Association of Mount Hope” in Mount Hope Town, New York, attracted a large number of local residents and officials. Attendees not only enjoyed Chinese cuisine but also appreciated captivating performances of traditional Chinese arts and games they had never seen before. Many expressed that they felt the warmth and values of traditional Chinese culture, emphasizing family, peace, and love.
Upon entering the “Chinese Renaissance Fest,” visitors encountered women dressed in Hanfu, ancient Chinese attire. Along the main pathway, there were commercial booths in ancient styles, with owners dressed in attire from different dynasties. Occasionally, a foreigner maintaining order would playfully identify as a Ming Dynasty police officer, offering assistance. The atmosphere of the event truly made people feel like they were traveling through time and space.
Mela Wu, the president of the organizing committee, mentioned the initial idea of focusing the event on the Tang Dynasty but decided to mix different dynasties for the first event. She jokingly commented, “Let everyone travel through various dynasties in just one day!”
The event was named the “Chinese Renaissance Fest” to showcase the essence of Chinese traditional culture and the values of “benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faith” to American society. Wu emphasized the importance of promoting traditional values and cultural heritage for people to return to traditions and embrace positivity.
Local officials and dignitaries from Mount Hope and Otisville attended the event, with enthusiasm for the cultural displays and performances. Mayor Paul Richard particularly enjoyed the diverse food options at the fest, describing the combination of food, entertainment, and activities as creating a delightful day in the community.
Vice Mayor Keri Carey expressed admiration for the classical Chinese dances on stage, appreciating the emphasis on family values in Chinese culture as they align with her personal beliefs, highlighting the opportunity to learn from ancestral experiences.
Attendees, mostly local residents, not only witnessed the presentation of traditional Chinese culture but also grasped the profound meanings embedded within it. Individuals like Bob, who shyly dressed in what he believed was Mongolian attire from the Song Dynasty, showcased their love for Chinese culture and expressed a desire to learn Mandarin, appreciating the emphasis on family values and warmth in the community.
The fest also featured craft vendors, cultural booths, games, and captivating performances, offering a wonderful day in the park to its visitors. Dorey Houle, the deputy mayor of Otisville and a candidate for state senator, shared his impressions of loyalty and integrity in Chinese culture, reflecting on the values conveyed.
The fest garnered praise for the sense of peace and harmony attributed to Chinese culture. Attendees like Lucille Young and Kayla Fernandez noted the tranquility they felt during performances and activities, commending the efforts to revive traditional culture in a peaceful and harmonious manner.
Denis Collado echoed the sentiments, appreciating the sense of community and the delightful blend of food, dance, and activities at the fest. The fest’s atmosphere of togetherness left a lasting impression on both locals and visitors, with many expressing their intention to recommend the event to others.
Joel Dionisio, a husband from a couple in attendance, not only enjoyed the food and artistic performances but also found interest in the traditional games at the fest. Reflecting on the games’ non-competitive nature and focus on relaxation, contemplation, and harmony, Joel highlighted the values of peace ingrained in traditional Chinese culture.
Activities at the fest included archery, tug-of-war, pitch-pot, cuju, throwing coins, among others. Various cultural institutions such as the “Falun Dafa Association,” “Fa Yuan Bookstore,” “Pure Land Academy,” and “Clean World” also participated in the event, enriching the cultural experience.
Young, expressing her enthusiasm, hoped for the continuous success of the fest. She emphasized her eagerness to participate not just annually but even in future editions without delay, showcasing the profound impact of the fest on attendees and their appreciation for Chinese culture and values.