Celebrate Lunar New Year with SAMA SAMA

Tuesday, February 17th | Two Sessions Available

Join us for a special Lunar New Year celebration in partnership with Welcome to Chinatown. While schools are closed for this national holiday, we're creating a joyful, screen-free space where children can explore Mandarin language and culture through stories, crafts, and community connection.

At SAMA SAMA, we believe in the power of cultural exchange to open young minds. This celebration brings global traditions to life through hands-on experiences that honor heritage while welcoming everyone to participate.

What to Expect

Mandarin Language & Storytime Led by Michele Wong from Gordon & Li Li, children will learn simple Mandarin phrases woven naturally into storytelling including "hello" "thank you" "please" and more.

Hands-On Craft Workshop Bo & Mei will guide children through traditional Lunar New Year craft experiences, creating keepsakes to take home.

Quiet Play Space A low-stimulation area will be available for puzzles, games, and quiet time throughout the session.

Tradition Chinese Tasting Parents and caregivers can enjoy a special tea tasting hosted by Yustea Tea.

Snacks Included Lunar New Year Cookies will be provided by Lili's Treats for all guests. Additional snacks from Spongie's Cafe and Mei Lah will be included in the cost of your ticket.

Who Should Join?

Mandarin-speaking families looking for an engaging, playful introduction to Chinese language for their children
All families curious about exploring new languages, cultures, and traditions together

Choose Your Session

Morning Session: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

NOTE - Each $25 offers entry for 1 child and 1 parent or caregiver.

Our Partners

WELCOME TO CHINATOWN is a nonprofit supporting Manhattan Chinatown small businesses and entrepreneurs. We do this by providing business resources, hands-on training, community connections, and thoughtful opportunities. Come visit us at 115 Bowery for programming and community events.

BO & MEI creates modern games, puzzles, and activities that bring culture to life through play, helping families connect, learn, celebrate, and pass down traditions with love.

GORDON & LI LI is the first-ever Mandarin bilingual book series for early childhood development, created by author Michele Wong McSween. Featuring loveable pandas Gordon & Li Li, the series introduces young children to first words in Mandarin and has become a beloved resource for multicultural families connecting with Chinese culture and language.

YUSTEA TEA is an authentic Pu’er tea brand founded by a Pu’er native and now based in New York City. Their teas are carefully curated from Yunnan’s pristine tea mountains, offering aged Pu’er teas shaped by nature, tradition, and time. Their mission is to bring the essence of Chinese tea heritage into every cup.

SAMA SAMA is an experiential platform collaborating with artists, change makers, and visionaries to create fun, cultural experiences for kids ages
2-8 years old in New York.

Contact the host of LUNAR NEW YEAR KIDS DAY