BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The Kern County Asian Chamber of Commerce kicked off its second annual Lunar New Year celebration at the Iron Lily in Bakersfield, marking the Year of the Fire Horse with a night filled with drums, cheers, and laughter.
The Kern County Asian Chamber of commerce welcomed the community for it’s second annual Lunar New Years Celebration. 2026 is the year of the horse. KBAK/KBFX
The event, which welcomed people from all backgrounds, featured a golden lion dance and recognized local leaders and community groups for promoting diversity.
Vivian, president of the Kern County Asian Chamber of Commerce, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, saying, “We are so new, we’re so young, that we just have had so much support, and we’re just so grateful. It really is an opportunity for us to share the cultures and the traditions of Southeast Asia.”
Attendees, including Jaime Lynn Cota, shared their excitement for the year ahead.
The Kern County Asian Chamber of commerce welcomed the community for it’s second annual Lunar New Years Celebration. 2026 is the year of the horse. KBAK/KBFX
Cota said, “I feel like God has brought me here so that I can help push that momentum forward.”
The Year of the Fire Horse is seen as a symbol of luck, strength, forward movement, and family togetherness.
Priscilla Sanchez, representing Leticia Perez from the Board of Supervisors, highlighted the educational aspect of the celebration: “Just being able to work with the community and learn, like, the cultures. I didn’t even know half of these things, so it’s nice to know that and learn that and be able to celebrate with them.”
The Kern County Asian Chamber of commerce welcomed the community for it’s second annual Lunar New Years Celebration. 2026 is the year of the horse. KBAK/KBFX
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The Kern County Asian Chamber of Commerce looks forward to future Lunar New Year celebrations and the continued growth of the community.