Boston's Chinatown Celebrates Year of the Fire Horse at Historic Empire Garden

Community leaders, city officials, and over 500 attendees gathered for a vibrant night of culture, empowerment, and tradition.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Chinese Progressive Association (CPA) hosted a celebratory banquet at the historic Empire Garden in Boston's Chinatown, marking the Year of the Fire Horse. The event featured colorful performances, a traditional Chinese feast, and speeches from prominent city leaders including Mayor Michelle Wu. The gathering highlighted the CPA's ongoing efforts to support and empower the local Chinese American community.

Why it matters

The CPA's annual celebration at the Empire Garden is a longstanding tradition that brings the community together to honor its cultural heritage and recognize the organization's work in advocating for equality and civic engagement. The event's large turnout and attendance by city officials underscores the importance of the Chinese American community in Boston and the role of community organizations like the CPA in amplifying their voice.

The details

The banquet featured a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, including lobster with ginger and scallions, honey walnut shrimp, fried whole sole, and crispy whole chicken. Between speakers, CPA members performed songs that filled the massive hall. The evening also included colorful pageantry and choreographed performances, such as a traditional Lion Dance by the Wah Lum Kung Fu and Tai Chi Academy.

  • The event was held on Friday, March 6, 2026.
  • The CPA has hosted the annual celebration at the Empire Garden for many years.

The players

Chinese Progressive Association (CPA)

A community organization dedicated to providing support, equality, and empowerment to Chinese residents in Boston and surrounding areas, including Quincy.

Mayor Michelle Wu

The mayor of Boston who addressed the crowd, presented certificates, and spent the evening engaging with residents.

Liz Breadon

The Boston City Council President for District 9.

Quincy Votes!

A 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 2022 that has significantly shifted the local voting landscape in Quincy.

Tom Leung

A first-time candidate who secured a seat on the Quincy School Committee in 2025 with 8,086 votes.

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What they’re saying

“I love the work that they do; this is an organization that is truly special to me.”

— Tom Leung, Quincy School Committee Member (Patch)

“The success of the night sets the stage for an even larger event next year.”

— Suzanne Lee, CPA President Emeritus (Patch)

What’s next

The CPA is already planning an even larger celebration for the Year of the Fire Horse in 2027.

The takeaway

The CPA's annual celebration at the historic Empire Garden showcases the vibrant Chinese American community in Boston and the organization's ongoing efforts to empower and advocate for its members. The event's strong attendance and support from city leaders underscores the community's growing political influence and the importance of grassroots organizations in amplifying marginalized voices.