Making the Dancing Lions for Lunar New York Celebrations

NYT Homepage

by Miya Lee and Jake Michaels

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

In the heart of San Francisco’s Anza Vista neighborhood, Corey Chan operates a unique workshop from his garage, crafting giant, vibrant lions that star in Lunar New Year celebrations. A master of Chinese lion dance tradition, Chan and his team create elaborate lion heads, each one a testament to centuries of cultural heritage. Their work is deeply tied to the Lunar New Year festivities, where these lions lead parades and performances, symbolizing luck, strength, and prosperity. Chan’s dedication to preserving this art form has made him a respected figure in San Francisco’s Chinese community. Chan’s journey into lion dance crafting began during his childhood, where he was captivated by the colorful, mythical creatures paraded during Lunar New Year. By his teens, he had committed himself to mastering every aspect of the craft—building, repairing, and performing with lions. This tradition, rooted in over a millennium of history, is not just for celebrations but also features in weddings, business openings, and funerals for esteemed elders. For Chan, it’s a lifelong learning process tied to his cultural identity. As the heritage director at Cameron House and director of Kei Lun Martial Arts, Chan has dedicated himself to passing on these traditions. His garage workshop is more than just a creative space—it’s a hub where he trains his team, including Jeff Lee, Travis Lum, and Thomas Chun. Together, they transform materials into intricate lion heads adorned with bright pompons, elaborate dragon masks, and traditional symbols of good fortune. Chan’s work isn’t just about creating decorations; it’s about preserving a living art form that carries deep cultural significance. His lions are more than props—they’re emissaries of heritage, connecting generations and bridging the gap between tradition and modern celebrations. This commitment to cultural preservation makes Chan’s craft not only an artistic achievement but also a vital part of

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/15/2026