CELEBRATIONS • February

Chinese New Year Celebration
Manhattan
Late January, early February.
Chinatown, Mott Street at Canal Street

For nearly 36 straight hours, thousands of Chinese-Americans and other revelers celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year in the streets of Manhattan's Chinatown. Parades on the first evening and the following day showcase elaborately costumed dances by lions and dragons, egged on by merchants along Mott Street who offer them red envelopes to encourage long and loud dances in front of their stores. These traditional Chinese good luck symbols scare the demons away. Unfortunately, the accompanying firecrackers that helped ward off evil during the actual parade have been banned by the city, although specific, contained detonations may occur and will be advertised in advance. Stores close down for a few days, opening again for a final parade in which Chinese officials welcome the new year and its promise of good fortune.

The Manhattan Chinatown parade route is as follows: Mulberry Street (at Columbus Park), Canal St., Mott St., Chatham Sq., East Broadway, Market St., Division St., Bowery, Canal St., ending at Mulberry St.(at Columbus Park).

For more information:
http://gonyc.about.com/library/weekly/aa_chinesenewyear.htm
http://www.explorechinatown.com/

last update: 9/2008

Chinese Lunar New Year Flower Market
Manhattan
First week in February
Columbus Park, Mulberry St in Chinatown

Sponsored by the Museum of Chinese in America, this three-day event features florists and traditional artists. The annual fair highlights the historical importance of flowers in traditional decoration for the Lunar New Year. Mulberry Street becomes alive every year with activity and attracts thousands of visitors each February.

For more information: Museum of Chinese in America, http://www.mocanyc.org/visit/events/lunar_new_year

last update: 9/2008

Lunar New Year Festival
Flushing, Queens
February

The Lunar New Year celebration in Flushing, Queens spans the whole month of February, showcasing the performing and visual arts of Asian culture. A dance performance representing Korea, China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia kicks off the festival and is followed by many more events including musical performances, tea ceremonies and visual art shows.

For more information: Flushing Town Hall, http://www.flushingtownhall.org/events/event.php?id=395

last update: 9/2008