The New York City Traveler

Chinese Lunar New Year is fast approaching and there is no better place (outside of Asia, of course) to celebrate the Year of the Rat!  New York City’s vibrant Asian population means there will be plenty of New Year’s celebrations to be enjoyed by all! 

Lunar New Year Flower Market | Sunday, Feb 3, 12-5pm and Monday, Feb 4, 2-8pm   Flowers are a symbol of good fortune in the New Year.  This flower market sells all of the traditional flowers of Chinese New Year such as chrysanthemums, orange blossoms, and narcissus.  Columbus Park on Mulberry Street (map).  Click here for more info.  

Firecracker Ceremony & Cultural Festival | Thursday, Feb 7, 11am-3pm   Firecrackers will mark the first day of the New Year.  Intended to ward off evil spirits, over 600,000 rounds will be lit.  After the opening ceremonies, there will be a lion, dragon, and unicorn dance as well as cultural performances onstage.  Chatham Square (map).  Click here for more info.   

Chinese New Year Parade in Flushing, Queens | Saturday, Feb 9, 11am-1pm  Flushing, Queens is home to a large Korean and Chinese population.  Possibly putting a damper on the celebration is the fact that the 7 train may not be running that weekend.  Check for service advisories from the MTA.  Parade runs from Union Street at 37th Ave to Main Street at 37th Ave (map).

9th Annual Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade & Festival | Sunday, Feb 10, 1-5pm   This internationally renown full-fledged parade features marching bands, floats, and lion & dragon dancers and will wind its way through most major streets in Chinatown.  After the parade an outdoor cultural festival will take place on Bayard Street that will feature performances by musicians, dancers, and martial artists.  Recommended viewing is on Allen St between Canal St and Grand Street (map).  Click here for more info.  

Photo credit: personal collection

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