The Chinese culture is one of the oldest and most complex in the world. It’s also been a part of this state right from the start.
Back in the Gold Rush days, Chinese immigrants accounted for the vast majority of those who toiled on the railroads to help tame the western frontier. They also were the first to grow rice in California.
Fast forward to present day, and you might be surprised to know that one of the oldest Chinese communities in the state is in Marysville. The Bok Kai Festival and Parade celebrate this, and this weekend marked the 132nd such celebration. In fact, some contend this is the oldest continuous parade held in the United States!
Our family ventured to Marysville to join the thousands who gathered for the 2012 Bok Kai Festival, marking the Year of the Dragon. One thing immediately clear was the perk of festival in a small community. Unlike some of the bigger festivals held in the state, we readily found parking that was a little more than one block from the parade route. Mighty convenient!
After finding a good viewing location, we were warmly greeted by Gordon Tom, President of the Sahm Fow Chinese Community, whose family has amazingly deep roots in Marysville.
The parade was quintessential fun for all ages, with marching bands, civic groups, horses and many cultural entries – complete with the staccato bursts from thousands of firecrackers. The highlight for our family (and it seemed all of the families on our street corner) was a magnificent 175-foot long Dragon that had everything but the fiery breath.
All in all, the parade proved to be fun and enlightening for our family. It’s also a reminder of the rich cultures found in the Sacramento Valley, each worthy of exploring and appreciating.
Jim Morris is Communications Manager for the California Rice Commission. Jim has worked in communications for more than 20 years. When he’s not on the job, he enjoys his family, faith, football, outrageous monster stories and running marathons
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