The Coastal Watershed Council is supporting Flex Kids Culture to organize a cultural event for the Chinese holiday of QingMing, or “Grave Sweeping Day” as part of our efforts to uplift the cultural history of the San Lorenzo River. Come learn about the history of Santa Cruz’s last Chinatown along the banks fo the San Lorenzo River, and help us honor the Chinese pioneers who helped develop Santa Cruz into the city it is today.

The event will kick off at the Museum of Art and History in downtown Santa Cruz. Attendees will then walk to the Dragon Gate, where George Ow Jr. and CWC Communications Manager Erin Loury will give remarks. The walking procession will then continue to Evergreen Cemetery for more historical remarks, making offerings, and cleaning graves. Attendees will also have a chance to preview and provide feedback on a first draft of the interpretive sign planned for the Dragon Gate. Light refreshments will be provided.

Qing Ming Schedule (Subject to change):
9:30 am: Gather at the MAH
10 am: Walk to Chinatown Dragon Archway across the MAH
10:30 am: Begin walk to Evergreen Cemetery from Archway
11 am: Arrive at Evergreen and participate in Qingming activities
11:30 am: Remarks by George Ow and Sandy Lydon
12 pm: Begin gravesite cleaning
12:45 pm-2 pm: Closing remarks, continue to clean gravesite

Please register for the event here. We hope to see you there!