Professional storyteller Barbara G. Wong celebrates Year of the Horse with free cultural program for children ages 6 and older

The Altadena Library District will welcome professional storyteller Barbara G. Wong on Thursday, January 29, for a free Lunar New Year celebration aimed at introducing local children to cultural traditions and the significance of the Year of the Horse.

“Storyteller Barbara G. Wong spins magical tales about dragons, ducks, a magic pot and more,” according to the official event description. “Learn about New Year customs and the lucky foods to eat to welcome the Year of the Horse!”

Wong brings substantial credentials to the program. She began her storytelling career as an Artist-in-the-Schools for the Hawaii State Department of Education and now performs “multicultural tales and personal stories with audiences of all ages in libraries, schools, museums, and festivals throughout southern California,” according to the district.

The event marks an important contribution to community programming as the Altadena Library District enters a significant transition period. Bob Lucas Memorial Library, which reopened on August 16 following a $4.5 million renovation, will serve as the district’s sole operational facility when the Main Library closes at the end of January for an 18-month renovation project.

The timing carries cultural significance. The 2026 Lunar New Year officially begins on Tuesday, February 17, making the January 29 event an early celebration consistent with regional programming practices. Registration is required due to limited space.

Lunar New Year with Barbara Wong will run on Thursday, Jan. 29 at 4 p.m. Bob Lucas Memorial Library and Literacy Center, 2659 Lincoln Avenue, Altadena. For more information, call (626) 798-0833 or visit https://www.altadenalibrary.org/programs?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D193668957.