Welcoming the Year of the Horse: Van Gordon and VNARP SoCal Kick Off Tết 2026 in Little Saigon
As the crisp air of early 2026 settles over Orange County, there is a familiar electricity humming through the streets of Little Saigon. It is the season of renewal, reflection, and—most importantly—celebration.
I am beyond thrilled to announce that #VNARPSOCAL is serving as a proud community media partner for one of the most anticipated cultural milestones of the year: the Tết at Home – Vietnamese Tết Fair 2026.
For our community, Tết is more than just a date on the lunar calendar; it is the heartbeat of our heritage. This year’s kick-off event promises to be a landmark occasion, blending our deep-rooted traditions with fresh, modern energy.
1. A New Chapter at the Sapphire Center
This year’s celebration holds a special significance as we gather at the Sapphire Center—a venue many of us have long known and loved as the former Saigon Performing Arts Center. This space has always been a pillar of Vietnamese culture in Southern California, and seeing it transformed for the 2026 Tết Fair feels like the perfect metaphor for our community: honoring our history while embracing a bright, sophisticated future.
2. What to Expect: Tradition Meets Innovation
The “Tết at Home” Fair is designed to be an immersive experience. For the first time, several new cultural activities will be introduced to the public, offering even those who have celebrated Tết for decades a chance to see our traditions through a new lens.
The event will be a feast for the senses, featuring:
- Traditional Games: Rediscover the joy of folk games that have been passed down through generations.
- Live Cultural Performances: From the rhythmic beat of the lion dances to contemporary musical showcases.
- Festive Flavors: No Tết celebration is complete without the tastes of home. Expect an array of traditional foods that evoke memories of family kitchens and street markets.
- Community Connection: Beyond the sights and sounds, this is a space to reconnect with old friends and forge new partnerships.
3. Empowering Our Local Economy
At VNARP SoCal, we believe that cultural strength and economic growth go hand in hand. This fair isn’t just a celebration; it’s a platform. We are calling on local business owners and entrepreneurs to take part in this vibrant gathering.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, offering a unique chance to showcase your brand to thousands of attendees while directly supporting the preservation of Vietnamese culture in the diaspora. You can view the full sponsorship details and packages here:
4. Join Us This Weekend!
The festivities are spread across two days of excitement, and I personally invite you, your family, and your colleagues to join us. Let’s fill the Sapphire Center with laughter and the spirit of Chúc Mừng Năm Mới.
- When:
- Saturday, Jan 30 (9 AM – 8 PM)
- Sunday, Jan 31 (10 AM – 9 PM)
- Where: Sapphire Center (16149 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA)
- Admission: Free!
As we prepare to welcome the New Year, let us do so together. Let’s honor our roots, support our local creators, and create new memories that will last a lifetime. I look forward to seeing you there!