July 4th: Lions Dance Across America Returns to Red Bluff’s Historic Chinatown
- Kari Chilson
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Red Bluff / Los Molinos, CA — In a vibrant celebration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Red Bluff’s Historic Chinatown will once again bring the Dragon to the Tehama County Independence Day Parade.
For the first time in 118 years, the community is reviving this cherished tradition as part of the nationwide “Lions Dance Across America” initiative. On Independence Day, lion and dragon dance teams will march in the parade, honoring both Asian American heritage and the shared history that unites the nation.
More than 30 Chinese lion and dragon teams across the United States have committed to performing in their local Independence Day parades as part of the America250 celebrations, spanning across the nation. The tradition highlights the rich diversity that strengthens America and recognizes that Asian Americans have proudly participated in Fourth of July festivities for more than 170 years.
Historical records show that Red Bluff’s Chinatown itself joined Independence Day celebrations as early as 1908, demonstrating the deep roots of community pride and civic engagement in Tehama County.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, July 4, 2026
- Time: 10:00 a.m.
- Location: Los Molinos Veterans Memorial Building (Vets Hall) – Tehama County Independence Day Parade
The public is invited to come out and support this colorful display of culture, patriotism, and history.
Jessica Chew, President of the Red Bluff Chinatown organization, expressed excitement about the tradition's return and pride in bringing back the Dragon and in joining communities across America in celebrating our shared heritage.
For more information, visit www.redbluffchew.org.
A historic video of a 1920 Lion Dance from the Marysville Bok Kai Festival (Bomb Day) in California’s Chinatown can be viewed here:
This year’s celebration promises to be a memorable tribute to America’s past, present, and future — one lion dance at a time. Come celebrate with Red Bluff’s Historic Chinatown and be part of history in the making! 🇺🇸🦁
