Join us for a cultural and doll-themed luncheon event as we celebrate the Chinese Year of the Dragon.

This event is perfect for anyone passionate about dolls and doll collecting, as well as those who appreciate Chinese culture and heritage.

Join us on Saturday, September 7 from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm at a NEW location: Trinity Oaks at 728 Klumac Rd, Salisbury, NC 28144.

The event will feature a hearty lunch, as well as informative and engaging presentations about Chinese dolls and doll making.

Our 2024 Program

The highlight of the program will be a presentation on the dolls from the Door of Hope Mission, a Christian Women’s Mission established in Shanghai in 1901 as a safe space for destitute women and girls that offered a haven from the horrors of human trafficking.

The dolls were created as part of the Mission’s education and training program, allowing its residents to refine their sewing abilities and improve on skills to sustain themselves as independent members of society. These dolls offer a glimpse into what life was like for women in China during this time, and today, they are highly sought after as they depict turn-of-the-century Chinese dress customs.

Meet Our Guest Speakers!

We are proud to introduce a featured guest speaker for our annual doll luncheon on September 7, 2024: Cynthia Ogeron. Cynthia is distinguished doll community member with more than 50 years of experience and expertise. Cynthia traveled to China with Jean Kestel to research the Door of Hope mission dolls for Jean’s book, making her the perfect fit for our program on Door of Hope dolls and celebrating Chinese dolls and culture.

Cynthia is a five-decade UFDC member who played an integral role in shaping the organization’s direction. She continues to travel nationwide with her husband, George, to share her expertise and unite collector communities in the celebration of doll artistry.

We’ll also hear from Cheng Wang, the Chinese-American author of the memoir From Tea to Coffee. Cheng was raised during China’s Cultural Revolution and sent to live in seclusion as part of his “re-education.” He experienced China’s economic revival then embarked on a new quest: starting a new life in America with just $200 and a strong desire to understand Western ideas.

He’ll give a short presentation to help us all understand the significance of Chinese New Year celebrations as we learn about the Year of the Dragon during our event!

In addition to these two presentations, the luncheon will include a special talk on the dolls created by Adam Lum. Beth Nance will share the fascinating story of Ada’s experience in Shanghai in the 1940s.

Tickets & Schedule

Tickets are limited for our annual doll luncheon, so book now to secure your spot at this unforgettable event. Event tickets cost $80 for museum members and $85.00 for non-members. Scroll down to register.

After the luncheon, we will host a tour at the NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures, located nearby. A special exhibit highlighting Chinese dolls and Door of Hope Mission dolls will be on display until December 2024.

NEW: Friday Mini-Event!

You can also join us at the museum on Friday from 4 pm to 6 pm for a special presentation on American Girl Ivy Ling, games, door prizes, and hors d’oeuvres. Tons of surprises! Entrance fee is $20. Click here to register!

Book Your Hotel!

Planning to stay in town for this event? Book your hotel room through Home2Suites by Hilton Salisbury at this link to get a special rate just for our guests:

Click here to book your room!