Photo:On stage, from left, South Pasadena Mayor Pro Tem Jack Donovan; Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, leader of Tai Ji Men; Mayor Evelyn G. Zneimer; and Councilmember Jon Primuth.
Celebrating Diversity and Unity Through Art, Dance, and the Spirit of the Year of the Dragon at “Around the World in South Pasadena” Event
September 29, 2024
South Pasadena came alive on September 28, 2024, as the City of South Pasadena Community Services Department hosted a vibrant multicultural festival, “Around the World in South Pasadena: Igniting Experiences Through Arts and Culture,” at Library Park. The event celebrated the city's rich cultural diversity with engaging performances, art, and cuisine, drawing attendees from across the community, including South Pasadena Mayor Evelyn G. Zneimer, Mayor Pro Tem Jack Donovan, Councilmember Jon Primuth, and Interim City Manager Don Penman.
With over 20 booths showcasing international food, arts, and crafts, the festival provided a unique opportunity for attendees to experience the beauty of different cultures. The event was further enriched by an array of artistic performances and cultural workshops that transported guests across the globe.
Photo:Tai Ji Men presents its 68-foot-long Celestial Dragon, a symbol of blessings, unity, and joy. Through their synchronized movements, the performers embodied cooperation and harmony, wishing safety, health, and happiness to all.
Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy, an international nonprofit cultural organization, brought their joyful energy to the event with a series of captivating performances, including the Tai Ji Men Celestial Dragon, Tai Ji Men Celestial and Joyous Drums, Tai Ji Men Lantern Dance, and Tai Ji Men Martial Arts Formation.
As 2024 marks the Year of the Dragon, Tai Ji Men presented their 68-foot-long Celestial Dragon, a symbol of blessings, unity, and happiness. Under the leadership of Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the dragon was gracefully brought to life by members ranging from 13 to 64 years old. Through their synchronized movements, the performers embodied cooperation and harmony, wishing safety, health, and happiness to all.
Photo:South Pasadena Mayor Zneimer, Mayor Pro Tem Donovan, and Councilmember Primuth joined in sounding the Tai Ji Men Celestial Drums, symbolizing strength and unity while delivering a message of hope for a brighter and stronger South Pasadena.
Following the dragon dance, dignitaries, including Mayor Zneimer, Mayor Pro Tem Donovan, and Councilmember Primuth, were invited to sound the Tai Ji Men Celestial Drums on stage. The rhythmic beating of the drums symbolized strength and unity, a message of hope for a brighter and stronger South Pasadena.
To further uplift the crowd, Tai Ji Men members performed the Tai Ji Men Celestial Drums. The powerful and joyful sounds resonated with the audience, stirring hearts and awakening conscience. The performance showcased the enduring cultural heritage of Tai Ji Men, with drummers from various backgrounds and age groups, demonstrating that anyone can create positive change in their lives and inspire others.
Photo:Tai Ji Men members from various backgrounds and age groups perform the Tai Ji Men Celestial Drums. The powerful and joyful sounds resonated with the audience, stirring hearts and awakening conscience.
The enchanting Tai Ji Men Lantern Dance followed, symbolizing the light of conscience and love within everyone, guiding the way through darkness and bringing hope to all. The dance conveyed a wish for happiness and fulfillment for all attendees.
Tai Ji Men concluded their performances with a stunning Martial Arts Formation. The display highlighted the essence of ancient qigong and martial arts, which focus on resolving conflicts and fostering peace. The performance underscored Tai Ji Men’s commitment to spreading a culture of love and peace.
Photo:Tai Ji Men presents an enchanting Lantern Dance, symbolizing the light of conscience and love within everyone, guiding the way through darkness and bringing hope to all. The dance conveyed a wish for happiness and fulfillment for all attendees.
In addition to their performances, Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy set up a family-friendly booth that enhanced the festival's atmosphere by spreading love and positive energy. Since its founding in 1966, Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy has established 21 academies worldwide, including two in Southern California—Pasadena and Walnut. The academy is dedicated to preserving the ancient traditions of qigong and martial arts, promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Mayor Zneimer, who had recently attended the first anniversary of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy in Pasadena, expressed her admiration for the academy’s mission of spreading love, peace, and conscience.
Photo:Tai Ji Men presents a powerful martial arts formation, underscoring Tai Ji Men’s commitment to spreading a culture of love and peace.
Under the guidance of Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, Tai Ji Men practitioners, hailing from diverse professional, cultural, and religious backgrounds, learn the wisdom of yin and yang, enhance their energy, and apply their conscience to help others, making the world a better place.
The Tai Ji Men performances and participation in South Pasadena’s multicultural event left a lasting impression on the community, highlighting the universal message of love, peace, and unity.