Cumming's Sharon Forks Library hosts free Lunar New Year celebration Feb. 15

Sharon Forks Library in Cumming will host a free Lunar New Year Celebration on Sunday, Feb. 15, with events in the Sharon Forks Meeting Room from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The family-friendly program brings performances celebrating Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures, hands-on crafts, cultural exhibits, and food samples to 2820 Old Atlanta Road.

The library’s event calendar lists modern and traditional Chinese dancing, Chinese instruments and singing, kongfu demonstrations, robotics, Korean Samulnori and pungmulnori, and a traditional Vietnamese lion dance among scheduled attractions. Hands-on activities across past celebrations have included Chinese calligraphy, paper cutting, traditional red envelopes while supplies last, and interactive craft stations. Past editions of the Forsyth County program drew large crowds; a record 1,250 people attended the 2024 celebration, illustrating strong local interest.

Organized by Forsyth County Public Library in partnership with OneForsyth, the event is part of a recurring community series that FCPL says is intended to introduce residents to diverse holidays and traditions. Library Director Adrianne Junius noted the program’s role in expanding local cultural experiences: “Part of the mission of Forsyth County Public Library is to provide our patrons with exceptional experiences. Partnering with OneForsyth on this cultural program is a great way for all of the residents of Forsyth County to experience different holidays and traditions celebrated in the community.” Pearl Cai, a Forsyth Chamber board member and OneForsyth representative, framed the partnership around inclusion and local prosperity: “The Forsyth Chamber’s OneForsyth initiative was formed to position and foster Forsyth County as an inclusive, thriving community for all. The initiative celebrates differences and champions inclusive prosperity for all in Forsyth County. We are excited to continue our partnership with the Forsyth County Public Library to celebrate Lunar New Year as a community.” FCPL Programming Manager Sarah Brubaker emphasized community enthusiasm: “Lunar New Year is the biggest holiday of the year for many members of our community, and they are so eager to celebrate with us. We are overwhelmed by the number of people who contribute their time and resources to make this event one of the most vibrant events we host every year.”

Public health and access considerations are central to the event’s local impact. High attendance levels increase demand on parking, seating, restroom facilities, and first responder access, and they can raise transmission risk for respiratory illnesses. Past celebrations have offered food snack bags of Chinese festival food starting at 1:30 p.m. while supplies lasted; attendees with food allergies or dietary restrictions should plan ahead. Attendees should check the library’s event listing or contact the library to confirm the final program, performance windows, and any current health or capacity guidance.

Practical details: the Sharon Forks Library event space is at 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, GA 30041. For event questions, contact the library at ask@ForsythPL.org or 770-781-9840, option 7. Media or press inquiries may be directed to Leslie Marinelli, Communications Manager, at Leslie.Marinelli@ForsythPL.org or 678-513-9392.

For Forsyth County residents, the celebration is both a cultural showcase and a reminder that inclusive public programming requires logistical and public health planning. Confirm the final schedule before you go, pack any needed accommodations, and expect a lively afternoon that reflects the county’s growing cultural diversity.