Asian American Coalition of Chicago hosts a lunar year Gala with success, intelligence, strength, and honor

On February 28, 2026, the Asian American Coalition of Chicago (AACC) conducted their 43rd Annual Lunar New Year Celebration in Chicago.

This historic occasion honors leadership, dedication, and cultural achievement in Chicago's various Asian American communities for more than four decades.

The 2026 event is expected to be a star-studded evening honoring Chicago's Asian American youth, professionals, and leaders. Ten distinct Asian communities—Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Pakistani, Thai, and Vietnamese—take turns hosting the event each year. The Chinese community in Chicago is honored to be the host committee this year, showcasing its rich cultural legacy and ongoing contributions to the city while celebrating the "Year of the Horse." The gala was hosted by NBC correspondent Brian Cheung and former Chicago-based broadcaster Nancy Loo.

The venue for this year's event was the Marriott Marquis Chicago - Great Lakes Ballroom (McCormick Place), which is situated in Chicago at 2121 S. Prairie Ave.

The program began with a VIP reception at 4:30 p.m. Renowned flutist Jennifer Zhang, whose graceful performances combine classical technique with modern and traditional Asian musical influences, was the main attraction at the VIP reception. Shin Lim, the magician from "America's Got Talent," was also present at the VIP reception.

The evening began with live performances, including the transitional Lion Dance and other Chinese traditional displays, after the program and dinner. over 1,000 guests attended this year's celebration.A sizable number of Pakistani Americans attended the event. The Pakistani consulate's general, Zaman Mehdi, attended the Gala as well.
The awarding of AACC's most esteemed awards, honoring legendary influence and service, took place that evening.

US Senator Tammy Duckworth who spoke about the importance of community, compassion, peace, and prosperity and highlighted the Asian American community's growth and contributions.

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs who shared his experiences learning Chinese and encouraged attendees to check the I-Cash program for unclaimed property

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson who praised Chicago's diversity and emphasized his administration's commitment to protecting immigrant communities

Anne Shaw, President of the AACC discussed the theme "Asia plus American" as a lived truth and recognized the community's contributions despite historical challenges.

Dr. Karen Eng and Kiana Puyat from Chicago's Chinatown, representing multiple generations rooted in the community.

The Grand Asian-American Sandra Otaka Memorial Award was presented to the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, received by Brandon Lee

The Pan Asian American Ping Tom Memorial Award was awarded to Dr. Manjeet Singh Chawla for civic spirit and dedication.
The first ALS-causing gene was discovered by Pakistani neurologist and geneticist Dr. Teepu Siddique, who also founded the biggest ALS center in Chicago received Exemplary Community Service Award

The oldest and biggest pan-Asian American group in Illinois is the Asian American Coalition of Chicago. 'Asian American,' this year's theme, honors the 250th anniversary of America and the significant role Asian Americans have had in creating and forming the nation. This event, which included lovely cultural dances, drummers accompanying stunning Chinese Lion Dancers, and the enchanting skill of performer Shim Lim, was eagerly anticipated by Chinees American. We welcomed everyone to participate in these festivities and join us in commemorating the Year of the Horse. "We were excited to showcase our community," says Anne Shaw, co-chair of this year's gala and president of the Asian American Coalition of Chicago.