Chinese New Year is a unique holiday. It technically starts on the first new moon of the New Year (that’s February 7 in 2008) and ends on the full moon fifteen days later. Long by any holiday’s standards, in reality the festivities in many parts of the world start much earlier than that, and extend much later. Like many holidays, it is celebrated with special foods, family functions, and rituals, but the party doesn’t stop there either. Melding religion, astrology, fireworks, parades, dancing, lanterns, and ornate costume, Chinese New Year is a grand event not only in China, but throughout the world.
To help say goodbye to the pig and hello to the rat, here are five of the biggest celebrations that will have you saying “Gung Hay Fat Choy!” well past the last firework.
Hong Kong Celebration
Next time I decide to do a marathon, I might just jet over to Hong Kong for theirs; it coincides with the biggest party in the city, Chinese New Year. The festivities last from February 1–21, and promise to be the biggest in the world. Because the Chinese New Year is the biggest event on the Lunar calendar, it is given its due respect with a night parade, soccer tournament, fireworks, and lantern festival. You can also make a pilgrimage to Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, where soothsayers will predict your future. In mine: another marathon.
San Francisco New Year Parade
The parade in San Francisco is no small affair. You have to get to the sidelines early or else you’re standing five people deep, trying to get a glimpse of a dragon or two. But the reason why it draws such a big crowd is because it’s worth it: rumored to be the biggest celebration outside of Asia and named one of the top ten parades in the world, it has floats, fireworks, a 201-foot Golden Dragon, and acrobatics. It takes place on February 23rd this year. There are a host of other related activities, including a flower fair and a 10k/5k run through Chinatown.
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