Community Holiday Celebration

12/27 2025 CPLLA Edmonton

As the year came to a close and a new one began, Edmonton, Alberta experienced temperatures below –30°C. Following a night of heavy wind and snow, many roads were covered in thick snow, making travel difficult for residents. Despite the harsh winter weather, nearly one hundred people gathered on December 27 at the headquarters of the Pure Land Learning Association to celebrate the holiday season together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The gathering brought together guests and community members from diverse backgrounds, creating an opportunity for people to connect, share a meal, and enjoy each other’s company during a time of year when many individuals may experience loneliness or isolation. Filled with laughter, conversation, and festive cheer, the event celebrated friendship, belonging, and togetherness as everyone welcomed the New Year.

Hosted by the Pure Land Learning Association Edmonton (CPLLA Edmonton) and co-organized by the Edmonton Taiwanese Association, Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant, Orill Vegan Market, and Gifted People Services, the event aimed to strengthen community connections and foster a sense of inclusion during the holiday season. Through a shared meal, cultural exchange, and artistic performances, attendees had meaningful opportunities to build new friendships, reconnect with familiar faces, and experience a sense of community.

The program featured song performances, dance presentations, karmic story sharing, and several highly anticipated lucky draws, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Continuous applause and smiling faces reflected the warmth and positive energy shared throughout the celebration.

Venerable Master Xingshang Shi, Abbot of the Pure Land Learning Association, delivered opening remarks and extended New Year blessings to all attendees. Mr. Livi Yu, Member of the Legislative Assembly, also attended the event and delivered a speech, recognizing the efforts of the organizers and community partners in promoting community harmony, multicultural exchange, and social connection.

Representatives from the co-organizing organizations—including Ms. Wei He, President of the Edmonton Taiwanese Association; Mr. Jia-Cheng Xie, owner of Water Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant; Ms. Gloria, representative of Yuan Sheng Long Vegetarian Foods; and Ms. Dianna Jiang, founder of Gifted People Services—shared their reflections on the importance of supporting community gatherings. The host organization presented certificates of appreciation to the co-organizers in recognition of their support, followed by memorable group photos with participants and volunteers.

The cultural and artistic performances were another highlight of the evening, bringing people together through music, dance, and shared appreciation. Mr. Jia-Cheng Xie delivered a heartfelt rendition of the classic song The Moon Represents My Heart. Three high school students—Yuni, Connie, and Cassa— presented a clarinet and flute performance, while the Dim Sun Dance Group from the University of Alberta brought a culturally rich dance performance to the stage. The group showcased the diversity of Chinese dance by blending traditional and modern styles, creating meaningful cultural connections within the wider community.

As the evening came to a close, Venerable Master Xingshang Shi returned to the stage to offer concluding remarks and New Year blessings, wishing everyone peace and good fortune in the year ahead. The organizing committee expressed sincere gratitude to all attendees for their participation and extended wishes for a Happy New Year.

More than a holiday celebration, the “Hundred-Person Vegetarian Banquet to Welcome the New Year” created a welcoming space for people to come together, form new friendships, and strengthen community bonds. By bringing people together during the holiday season, the event helped foster social connection, inclusion, and a sense of belonging, while sharing the values of compassion, gratitude, harmony, and mutual care.

Our sincere thanks go to our sponsors and community partners for their generous support: Edmonton Taiwanese Association, Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant, Orill Vegen Market, and Gifted People Services.

Your support made this meaningful gathering possible and helped bring our community together in warmth and harmony.