The Coastal Watershed Council is proud to sponsor a Chinese New Year celebration in Santa Cruz on Sunday, February 22, 2026! As part of CWC’s efforts to honor the diverse cultural history of the San Lorenzo River, this event will be held at The 418 Project on the site of Santa Cruz’s last Chinatown – which was destroyed when the San Lorenzo River flooded in December of 1955.

Organized by Flex Kids Culture, the event will include food, music, a lion dance performance, arts and crafts, and more. Please join us for this free community event to celebrate Santa Cruz’s rich culture and history!

The event will include a 2 pm screening of a new short film produced by CWC with support from the State Coastal Conservancy. Hear members of Santa Cruz’s Chinese American community share their connections to the San Lorenzo River, and the history and experiences that inspired the construction of the Dragon Gate monument at Chinatown Bridge. We hope to see you there!

Event Schedule:

• 12 PM – Food in The 418 Project lobby
• 1 PM – Dragon Dance
• 2 PM – CWC Dragon Gate Film Screening
• 2:15-3:30 – History discussion with George Ow, Jr., and Sandy Lydon
• 12-4 PM – Arts and crafts and cultural activity tables in The 418 Project lobby