Toronto, January 25, 2025 – The 36th annual Dragon Ball, hosted by the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation, illuminated the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Saturday night. Over 800 philanthropists, dignitaries, and business leaders gathered to celebrate the Lunar New Year and raise funds for Yee Hong’s senior services and expansion of its long-term care facilities.

As one of North America’s largest and most anticipated Lunar New Year celebrations, the Dragon Ball has combined philanthropy with cultural celebration for over three decades. To date, it has raised more than $23 million to support Yee Hong Centre for Geriatric Care. Proceeds from this year’s event will help fund the construction of Yee Hong Ng Siu Chan Centre, a state-of-the-art long-term care facility in Scarborough.
Government dignitaries present included Ontario Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Richmond Hill Mayor David West, and Consul General of China in Toronto Luo Weidong. Representatives from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, including Director Emily Mo, also attended, alongside politicians from all levels of government.
Dr. Joseph Wong, Founder and Chair of the Yee Hong Foundation, highlighted the importance of the organization’s work:
“For over 30 years, Yee Hong has been a beacon of hope for seniors, providing culturally appropriate care that respects the dignity and heritage of each individual. Our mission is not only to deliver exceptional care but also to ensure every senior can age with dignity, joy, and peace of mind.”
Stephen Siu, President of the Yee Hong Foundation, expressed his gratitude:
“Each year, the Dragon Ball brings together donors, stakeholders, and community leaders to celebrate the Lunar New Year and support Yee Hong’s vision. We are deeply thankful for your unwavering generosity, which makes this event a success year after year.”
2. A Night of Cultural Enchantment
The gala’s entertainment captivated guests with a spectacular lion dance, followed by the Chinese folk performance “Sentiments of Love and Courage from Tang Dynasty – Yang Guifei.” Hong Kong artist Hoi Chiu dazzled attendees with his sand-painting artistry, and a duet of “Jasmine Flower” by Ukrainian soprano Antonina Laskarzhevska and harpist Andrew Chan added a unique cultural fusion. The evening concluded with the “Dance of the Golden Snake,” blending Chinese and Western musical elements to herald the Year of the Snake.
Guests also enjoyed a luxurious four-course dinner featuring Lunar New Year symbols of good fortune, complemented by a reception offering Blue Label whiskey, Goubuli Baozi, Taiwanese milk tea, and other culinary delights.