Color and music filled the main quad during the Lunar New Year celebration last Monday.

"We hold this event every year," said Betty Yu, president of the Asian Pacific Americans for Student Leadership. APASL and the Vietnamese Student Association co-sponsored the event.

Student Andrew Brian Nguyen had a traditional Vietnamese booth. He had on display the traditional clothing called ao dai, worn during the New Year. The clothing is colorful, embroidered with intricate designs.

The booth contained peach flowers, which are symbol of spring, red envelopes and tea.

"Tea is very popular during the New Year. Many children will give their grandparents tea as a gift," Nguyen said.

Student senator Sanjeet Heyer had a lantern-making booth. "I’m so excited," said Heyer. These lanterns are quick and simple to make and they represent the Chinese New Year."

Student Kenny Bui had glass containers filled with water. Participants threw ping pong balls into them and those who got the ball in the containers received goldfish.

"It’s fun, you get to win free stuff," said student Grace Chuang after winning a goldfish.

"I’m involved because all aspects of the Asian culture are explored," said APASL member Alex Candia.

"This brings people together. It’s really nice to share your heritage and culture," he said.

"This event is important to De Anza because there is a large Asian community here on campus," said student Thai Ray

Other booths included a Chinese zodiac display, calligraphy writing in Chinese, a snack station and origami. After circulating through all the booths, participants were given prizes.