Canada Post stamp for The Year of the Horse 2014
Friday, January 31 is Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year. This year is the Year of the Wood Horse and according to the Chinese zodiac, those born in the Year of the Horse are often energetic leaders, bright, and kind to others. The Year of the Horse is also said to be a good year for travel. To celebrate this auspicious time, check out these vibrant and often free Chinese New Year events happening in Vancouver over the next few weeks:
1. Chinese New Year Parade: Feb. 2
Attracting thousands of spectators annually, the Chinese New Year Parade in downtown Vancouver’s Chinatown will have over 3,000 performers including lion dancers, marching bands, martial arts acts, and decorated floats. The parade will be on Sunday, February 2, starting at 11am at the Millennium Gate on Pender Street. This is a free event.
2. Chinese New Year at FlyOver Canada: Now-March 2
New for this Chinese New Year is the Chinese ride film “Flight of the Dragon”, debuting at FlyOver Canada at Canada Place, downtown Vancouver. This virtual flight experience (complete with wind, scents, and mist) will feature a spectacular look at China’s landscapes and culture. On now until March 2nd, from 10am to 9pm daily. Admission is $19.95 for adults and $14.95 for kids (kids must be at least 40 inches to ride).
3. LunarFest: Feb. 7-9
This Asian arts and culture event features live theatre, drum performances, story-telling, workshops, games, and traditional food & drink. LunarFest is definitely family-friendly and it’s free! On from February 7-9, from 11am-7pm at the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza.
4. Year of the Horse at International Village Mall: Jan. 30- Feb. 2
The International Village Mall, or Tinseltown, is hosting various festivities that include live performances, culinary delights, prizes, and an opportunity to purchase Chinese New Year souvenirs and gifts. On from January 30 till February 2. Admission is free.
5. Year of the Horse Temple Fair: Feb. 2
To celebrate traditional Chinese New Year, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden presents a special public event based on the Spring Festival temple fair where people entertain, trade, greet, celebrate and pray for a prosperous new year. You’ll find traditional Chinese games and activities, fortune-telling, live music, food, drinks and more. There’s also a children’s corner which includes the chance to run around and yell to scare away evil spirits. February 2, from 10am-4pm. Admission is by donation.
Gung Hay Fat Choy!
Last modified: January 22, 2014
Kits House Volunteers are also organizing a Chinese new year celebration potluck & Chinese food workshops & tours at Kits House.
Join us on Thursday Feb 6th for a Chinese New Year’s Celebration Potluck. 6-8pm at St. Mark’s Church (2nd & Larch)
Through our project, ‘Expanding the Kitchen Table’, we will be hosting tours for finding Chinese ingredients on the Westside and a cooking class focusing on Chinese foods. More information available at the potluck.
For more information contact Zsuzsi at zsuzsi@kitshouse.org or 604-736-3588 ext. 31.