This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
The Joy Luck Club, theme beautifully captured the enduring bonds of family and friendship that continue to define the San Marino Community
Chinese Club of San Marino Hosted 46th Annual Mid-Autumn Festival Gala
The Chinese Club of San Marino (CCSM) proudly hosted its 46th Annual Mid-Autumn Festival (MAF) Gala on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in San Gabriel. The beloved annual celebration brought together nearly 500 guests—including families, friends, and community leaders—to honor cultural heritage, unity, and the spirit of giving.
For many long-time members, the event evoked heartfelt memories. As former director and Co-Chair of MAF; Vivian Chan reflected, “Every time I attend the Mid-Autumn Festival Gala, it brings back fond memories. I know firsthand how much heart, effort, and teamwork it takes to make this event a success. It truly shows what can be accomplished when our community comes together with purpose and generosity.”
From its humble beginnings—once held in a private home—to its current stature as one of San Marino’s most anticipated community fundraisers, the Gala continues to shine as a testament to collaboration and cultural pride. Proceeds from the evening benefit the San Marino Unified School District, supporting programs that enrich students’ educational experiences and strengthen the bond between families and schools.
This year’s Gala featured many memorable highlights. Superintendent Dr. Linda De La Torre served as spirited auctioneer, leading a lively bidding session with the enthusiastic support of her “cheering team”; Mayor Gretchen Shepherd joined the fun, inspiring two top bidders for the coveted “Mayor for a Day” experience.
Musical performances by vocalist/professor, Jimmy Shao, whose multilingual repertoire captivated the audience, showcased the remarkable talent within the community. The celebration continued as dance instructor Wendy Liu invited everyone to the dance floor to work off a sumptuous ten-course dinner—filling the evening with joy, laughter, and connection.
Reflecting on the success of the night, Maggie Lee, Co-Chair of the 46th Annual Gala, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve in her seventh year with CCSM. She acknowledged the unwavering dedication of volunteers and supporters who have helped the organization reach major milestones—including the recent purchase of a new clubhouse to expand educational programs and the creation of an endowment fund to ensure long-term sustainability.
In a world often shaped by technology and fast-paced living, this year’s Gala offered a meaningful pause—a reminder of the power of human connection, compassion, and shared celebration. Inspired by The Joy Luck Club, the evening’s theme beautifully captured the enduring bonds of family and friendship that continue to define the San Marino community.
As CCSM looks ahead to its 47th Annual Gala next year, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to promote cultural exchange, educational advancement, and community service. Through ongoing events, scholarships, and outreach programs, the Chinese Club of San Marino continues to build bridges across generations, cultures, and hearts—living out its mission to serve, give, and grow together.
The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?