On October 25, 2025, more than a thousand alumni from Southern California universities converged at Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park in San Gabriel Valley for the 23rd Annual “Pine, Bamboo, and Plum” picnic. This well-established event, organized by the Southern California Chinese University Alumni Association, has become a cherished tradition for many, offering a day of celebration, cultural exchange, and connection. It brought together individuals who, despite the passage of years since graduation, still share a deep bond rooted in their university experiences and cultural heritage.
The “Pine, Bamboo, and Plum” picnic is more than just an alumni gathering; it is a celebration of Chinese culture, community, and the memories that bind people together. As attendees arrived, the atmosphere was immediately charged with excitement, with people eagerly reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. The park, surrounded by nature and the crisp autumn air, provided the perfect backdrop for a day of festivities.
The event featured a wide array of cultural performances that added a rich, artistic layer to the picnic. These performances, which included traditional Chinese music, folk dances, and even calligraphy demonstrations, allowed the attendees to experience and reconnect with their roots in a meaningful way. For many, these performances were not only a source of entertainment but also a reminder of their cultural heritage, reinforcing the importance of preserving such traditions across generations. The music and dance performances were met with enthusiastic applause, drawing attendees from all corners of the park to enjoy the displays of talent.
Alongside the performances, the picnic included a variety of traditional games that encouraged participants to engage in friendly competition while also reflecting the cultural values of community and teamwork. From the thrill of a spirited tug-of-war to races and other games, the picnic atmosphere was lighthearted, filled with laughter and fun as people of all ages participated together. These games allowed alumni to relive the joy of childhood and university days, sharing in experiences that transcended time and age. For the younger attendees, it was a chance to be introduced to these beloved traditions, helping to ensure that the cultural practices would continue for generations to come.
The heart of the event was undoubtedly the communal picnic, where alumni gathered to share in the joy of food, friendship, and conversation. The picnic spread was as diverse as the attendees, with traditional Chinese dishes, such as dumplings and bao buns, alongside other popular picnic staples, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. Families and friends sat together, savoring the food while reminiscing about their university years, laughing, and catching up on each other’s lives. It was in these moments of shared meals that the sense of community truly shone, with people bonding over their shared experiences of both university life and their cultural backgrounds.
As the afternoon turned into evening, the park was filled with the warm glow of lanterns and the sounds of conversation, with many alumni lingering to continue their conversations long after the official end of the event. The picnic was not only a reunion but a reminder of the lasting bonds that alumni share, despite the distances and time that may separate them. It also underscored the importance of maintaining connections to one’s roots, whether that be through culture, friendship, or community.
The 23rd Annual “Pine, Bamboo, and Plum” picnic was a testament to the strength of the Southern California Chinese University Alumni Association and its ability to bring people together year after year to celebrate culture, friendship, and shared history. For the alumni who attended, the event was a reminder that no matter how much time has passed since their graduation, the community they built remains strong and enduring. It’s a day that not only celebrates the past but also looks forward to the future, ensuring that the traditions and bonds created through these gatherings will continue for generations to come.
