VANCOUVER, Jan. 10, 2014 /CNW/ - Ring in the Lunar New Year next month by celebrating the Year of the Horse at CIBC Lunarfest at the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza.

In recognition of the Year of the Horse -- a symbol of grace, beauty, strength and freedom - this year's festival will showcase a stallion, mare, colt and filly in the first-ever lantern theatrical presentation. This four-lantern-horse family will take the audience on a magical journey to magnificent Asian palaces to discover the New Year traditions in China, Korea and Thailand.

"The Year of the Horse not only brings back wonderful childhood memories for many, but also reconnects our heritages to one of the most important creatures to mankind," says Charlie Wu, Managing Director, the Asian-Canadian Special Events Association, the organizer of CIBC LunarFest. "We are thrilled to be able to once again partner with CIBC in bringing this extraordinary annual celebration to the community and provide entertainment for the entire family."

One of the highlights of the event will be a 15-foot tall Rocking Horse to rekindle childhood memories and inspire the young to always think big.

"CIBC is honoured to play a role in recognizing the significant cultural contributions of Canada's large and growing Asian community," says Mike Stevenson, Region Head, British Columbia & Northern Territories, CIBC. "We look forward to celebrating the Year of the Horse with our neighbours across Greater Vancouver. Happy New Year."

As well, there will be an outstanding line-up of live performances on stage and interactive activities, including art demonstrations, horse lantern-making workshops, Blessings in the Sky activity to collect wishes for the sky lantern launch and photo opportunities, to name just a few. Also enjoy the culinary delights at Dumpling Fest, among other activities at CIBC LunarFest.

CIBC LunarFest runs from Feb. 7 to 9 at the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza in Vancouver with the sky lantern launch on Feb. 15 in the Village of Cumberland.

About CIBC LunarFest
CIBC LunarFest, now in its fourth year, is Canada's premier festival of contemporary Asian arts and culture. It endeavours to reach new Canadians and those who have been here for many generations to share in the diversity of Canada. It also encourages and fosters the collaboration of Canadian and international cultural presenters to create new forms of artistic expressions. CIBC Lunarfest is a festival that brings together soul, art and life on one stage.

About CIBC
CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with 11 million personal banking and business clients. CIBC is committed to supporting causes that matter to our clients, our employees and our communities. We aim to make a difference in communities through corporate donations, sponsorships and the volunteer spirit of employees. With a strategic focus on Kids, Cures and Community, and employee commitment to causes, including the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure, the CIBC Children's Foundation and United Way, we are investing in the social and economic development of communities across the country. In 2013, CIBC contributed more than $41 million to 1,870 charitable and non-profit initiatives in over 430 communities. You can find other news releases and information about CIBC in our Press Centre on our corporate website at www.cibc.com.

SOURCE Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce