Chef Art Smith's exclusive Chinese New Year celebration dazzles with stars and fireworks

James Beard Award-winning Chef Art Smith is no stranger to hosting remarkable celebrations, and his third annual Chinese New Year Party was no exception. Held at his home in the Kenwood neighborhood, the event attracted 200 invitees and blended cultural traditions, culinary inspiration and a heartfelt message of unity and community.

The party was co-hosted by an impressive lineup, including celebrity Chef Carol Yeung, cookbook author, "America’s Test Kitchen" host Kevin Pang, Mexicali Chef Juana Chairez Gandara and Chicago Alderman Lamont Robinson.

The theme of this year’s celebration was inspired by Chef Art’s visit to Mexicali, Mexico, a city uniquely defined by its Chinese and Mexican heritage. While visiting his friend Alfredo Casteneda in Palm Springs, Chef Art was introduced to Mexicali’s Chinese cuisine and the warm hospitality of Alfredo’s mother, Juana. This experience sparked the idea for the event, which was brought to life with the guidance of Chef Carol, Reunion Chef Chris De La Cueva, Sporty Bird Chef Hector Guerrero and a talented team of collaborators.

“Food will always save us,” Chef Art shared, reflecting on the event’s underlying message of unity and the power of communities coming together. This sentiment was cleverly encapsulated in the party’s fortune cookies ("borders may separate us, but food and culture unite us - Chef Art Smith"), reminding guests of the lessons from Mexicali’s harmonious blend of cultures.

The festivities were expertly orchestrated by Michelle Durpetti Events and supported by Chef Art’s team, including managing partner Manolis Alpogianis, Kiki Alpogianis, Jim Cobb, Ashley Evans, Brittany Barson and Jeb Talkington. Navy Pier CEO Marilynn Gardner played a key role in introducing Chef Art to several collaborators, including Jonathan Gesse, Megan Hunter, and Matt Peterson—all of whom share Disney backgrounds, connecting to Chef Art’s alma mater.

Artist Jesus Salgueiro, Chef Art’s husband, added a stunning visual element to the celebration. His geometric mandala designs inspired a breathtaking fireworks display titled “Mandalas in the Sky.” The evening’s soundtrack featured meaningful selections from Chef Art’s friends, including Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way,” Nic Jonas’ “Home” and Demi Lovato’s “Frozen.”

The venue was transformed into a colorful and vibrant celebration space by Monica de Berardinis of Rome, Elizabeth Montero of Los Angeles, and Hello, Vayaffag Services Inc., with lighting by Black Oak Productions. Entertainment included performances by Seven Star Lion Dance, Mariachi Estrellas de Chicago, DJ Air One Chicago and Silk Pajama Gang, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere.

Special guests included Jennifer Pritzker, Mayari Pritzker, Kevin Jonas (father of the Jonas Brothers),Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Niles Mayor George Alpogianis, Amanda Puck and Billy Rairigh, Cortney Hall, Matt Rodrigues, Dorothy Dziubasik, Brook Jay, Rick Bayless, Eric Kircherer, Anthony and Erin Martorina, Steve Abrams, Chuck Jordan, Perri Irmer (Pres/CEO DuSable Museum)and daughter Adrienne Irmer,  Robert and Dana Hokin Garvey, Mimi Marks, Sylvia Perez with daughter Magali Blasdell, Michelle Durpetti, Mario Santiago, Jim Cobb and photographer Collin Pierson, among others. The guest list of 200 added to the event’s legendary reputation—scoring an invitation felt akin to winning the lottery.

Chef Art’s Chinese New Year Party was a heartfelt celebration of cultural fusion, community and culinary artistry—a reminder of how food and shared traditions can bring people together in the most meaningful ways.

(Photos by Collin Pierson Photography and Candace Jordan)