January 23rd, 2012 is the start of the 15 day celebration of Chinese New Year, the year of the water dragon!
We are presently designing the gallery to reflect the Year of the Dragon, here is some information on the celebrations in Vancouver.
Chinese New Year is a time to welcome longevity, wealth and prosperity and to eliminate any negative chi from the past.
This Chinese New Year 2012 ushers in the Water Dragon. Water exerts a calming influence on the Dragon’s innate fire. Water Dragons are more open to other people’s opinions than other Dragons which gives them the ability to channel their personal charisma into real leadership qualities.
What to expect this year
While the Year of the Rabbit was characterized by calm and tranquility, the Year of the Dragon will be marked by excitement, unpredictability, exhilaration and intensity. The Rabbit imbues people with a sense of cautious optimism, but people respond to the spirit of the Dragon with energy, vitality and unbridled enthusiasm, often throwing all caution to the wind – which can be an unwise move: The Dragon is all about drama but if you take unnecessary risks, you may find yourself starring in your own personal tragedy.
Here in Vancouver, B.C. we have several events to celebrate this Chinese New Year.
Top 6 Vancouver Chinese New Year Events 2012
1. Come down to our Robert Held Art Glass gallert at 6th and Pine for our new Chinese New Year gallery design, and partake in our celebration.
2. Chinese New Year Bazaar – January 16 – 20, 2012 – FREE
Take pictures with a Dragon and browse loads of discounted merchandise at this festive bazaar in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown. Takes place from 10:30am – 3:30pm daily from January 16 – 20 at 28 West Pender Street.
3. You have to love this one! Gung Haggis Fat Choy Robbie Burns Chinese New Year Dinner – January 23, 2012
One of Vancouver’s most-beloved and quirkiest Chinese New Year traditions is this cultural fusion dinner at Chinatown’s Floata Restaurant that honours both Scottish-Canadian and Chinese-Canadian heritage. Features a full dinner plus lots of live entertainment.
4. Year of the Dragon Celebration at Chinatown’s International Village – January 27 – 29, 2012 – FREE
One of Greater Vancouver’s largest New Year’s celebrations happens at the International Village in the heart of Chinatown, where over 150,000 visitors drop in over the three days of free fun. Festivities include live performances, entertainment, shopping, kids’ activities, and more.
5. Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival & Cultural Fair – January 28 – 29, 2012 – FREE
Due to popular demand, the Chinese Cultural Fair that usually follows the Vancouver Chinese New Year Parade has been expanded to two days: the Saturday before the parade and Sunday, the day of the parade (see below). The Spring Festival & Cultural Fair takes place at Chinatown’s Sun Yat-sen Plaza (50 East Pender Street) and include multicultural performances, a special lion dance grand finale, and martial arts demonstrations.
6. Vancouver Chinese New Year Parade 2012 – January 29, 2012 – FREE
Vancouver’s annual Chinese New Year Parade features the largest assembly of traditional lion dance teams in Canada, plus multicultural dance troupes, the Vancouver Police Department Motorcycle Drill Team, marching bands, and many local community groups, attracting over 50,000 spectators each year.
Robert Held Art Glass Gallery 