Chinese New Year 2012: Year of the Dragon

January 23 may be the first day of the Year of the Dragon … but the festivities go on all week long. Check out our list of Chinese New Year celebrations happening throughout the Lower Mainland (bonus: they’re all free to attend and everyone is invited to join in the fun)!

City Square Lion’s Dance (January 24)

After you finish your morning class at Bikram Yoga Vancouver, be sure to stick around to watch the Chinese New Year Lion’s Dance at City Square Mall, happening at lunchtime!

Metrotown Chinese New Year Parade (January 25)

The Chinese New Year Parade at Metropolis at Metrotown starts at 10 a.m. in the mall’s Grand Court. Watch the lion awake and begin dancing throughout the Burnaby shopping centre to “bless” participating stores. This custom is meant to bestow luck and prosperity on the merchants.

International Village Year of the Dragon Celebration (January 27-29)

Over 150,000 people are expected to visit the International Village in the heart of Vancouver’s Chinatown for one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations in the city. Free Year of the Dragon Celebration events include live performances, shopping, kids’ activities and more.

Chinatown Spring Festival & Cultural Fair (January 28-29)

Due to its popularity, the Spring Festival & Cultural Fair has been extended over two days in 2012. Head down to Vancouver Chinatown’s Sun Yat-sen Plaza at 50 East Pender Street for multicultural performances, martial arts demonstrations and special lion dance grand finale.

Vancouver Chinese New Year Parade 2012 (January 29)

The city’s annual Chinese New Year Parade features the largest assembly of traditional lion dance teams in Canada, the Vancouver Police Department Motorcycle Drill Team and marching bands, attracting over 50,000 spectators each year. Don’t miss it!

Know of any other events going on around town this week? Let us know in the comments below!