Today, February 19th, Lunar New Year is celebrated around the world welcoming in the Year of the Goat (or Ram). Asian families will be visiting and paying homage to family, feasting, and taking part in traditional events with Dragon and Lions dances, parades and much more.
In Vancouver, we’re lucky to have a diverse and dynamic Asian community. Celebrations take place all around Metro Vancouver, with the Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival being its peak. This year’s Chinatown Festival and Parade takes place on Sunday February 22, 2015.
Starting at the Millenium Gate on Pender Street, near Taylor, the Parade follows Pender to Main, turning south on Main then west on Keefer, wrapping up at Carrall Street. The parade is once of the largest in the city and always draws tens of thousands of spectators, so head out early to find your viewing spot. After the parade the Lion dancers bring luck and good fortune to Chinatown’s businesses. International Village Shopping Centre welcomes the crowds with exhibitions, prizes and markets all around the mall throughout the weekend.
Everyone is welcome to take part in or learn about the Lunar New Year so get out and enjoy the celebrations.
Gung Hei Fat Choi!