In 2024, the historic Ah Louis Store proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary with a monumental Lunar New Year Palm Street Block Party that brought thousands of San Luis Obispo community members and visitors together in a moment of joy and connection. The event was more than just a celebration — it was a meaningful gathering that honored the legacy of the Chinatown Historic District.
The Ah Louis Store has long been at the heart of Lunar New Year festivities in San Luis Obispo. A front-page article in the Telegram Tribune on February 9, 1900, proclaimed, “Ah Louis Celebrates” and “Chinese New Year Demonstration Attracts a Large Crowd to His Store.” In 2024, the Tribune headline echoed this history with “Crowds pack downtown SLO as block party celebrates Lunar New Year with drone light show,” accompanied by the photo below by Joe Tarica.
The overwhelming response to our event last year and deep sense of community made it clear: we couldn’t let this tradition fade. Inspired by what it meant to so many, we’re thrilled to announce the return of annual Lunar New Year celebrations to the San Luis Obispo Chinatown Historic District on Palm Street.
This year’s more intimate and heartfelt gathering continues to honor the vibrant traditions of Chinatown through thoughtful collaboration.
This free Lunar New Year celebration will feature cultural performances, delicious food booths (available for purchase), engaging activities, and a welcoming space to connect. The event will take place on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:30 PM during the weekly Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market. We can’t wait to celebrate the Year of the Snake with you! Please visit https://www.slochinatownhistoricdistrict.com for more information!
-Amber Karson & Emily Butler, Ah Louis Store (2016-present)