2026 Washington D.C. Lunar New Year Parade: BLIA Promotes “Three Acts of Goodness, Four Givings”

Reported by Caiyue Luo Washington, D.C., USA

On February 22, 2026, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Washington, D.C., Chapter participated in the annual Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown, Washington, D.C., sharing the joy of the season with the community and conveying the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism—compassion, harmony, and goodness—through meaningful action.

The parade and celebration, co-hosted by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA) of D.C. and the wider overseas Chinese community, began at 2 p.m. and featured 48 participating groups, including BLIA Washington, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S., and others. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Overseas Community Affairs Council Chairperson Hsu Chia-Ching, Representative Alexander Tah-ray Yui, and other local officials attended, drawing large crowds along the route and showcasing the city’s vibrant multicultural spirit.

The Washington Lunar New Year Parade is a long-standing tradition highly valued by local authorities. This year, the procession was led by D.C. police vehicles and a motorcycle escort, followed by the ceremonial D.C. police honor guard. BLIA Washington was the only religious organization in the parade. Cute little monk and novice puppets immediately captured spectators’ attention, with many stopping to take photos and cheer. BLIA members held banners reading “Three Acts of Goodness” and “Four Givings”, braving wind and rain to spread positive energy. Many bystanders gave thumbs-up signs, while others enthusiastically recited “Three Good Deeds” and “Four Give.”

Despite overcast and chilly conditions, BLIA members from Maryland and Virginia participated actively. Chapter board member Fang Yueqing marched with fellow practitioners and her three grandchildren; her granddaughter Shi Huirou and BLIA Young Adult Division (YAD) president Liu Huizi dressed as little monk puppets, while her grandson Shi Zhiyong assisted with flag-bearing. YAD members persevered through the full parade route, sharing that though fatigued, they were delighted to experience the festive atmosphere and complete the New Year mission. First-time participant Zheng Weidong helped distribute summer camp flyers, hoping to introduce more people to BLIA and demonstrate the youth’s enthusiasm and sense of mission.

Chapter President Elisabeth Hsu expressed honor in participating, noting that the chapter’s involvement supports overseas Chinese community events and brings Buddhist values into the wider community. She also thanked the Buddhas for their blessings, saying that despite light rain, the parade was completed joyfully thanks to the careful preparation and cooperation of all BLIA members.