Five Cities to Celebrate the Year of the Dragon

Each year, cultures across the world celebrate the Lunar New Year, marking the beginning of the lunisolar calendar. Along with each new year, a different zodiac sign is recognized. This year, the dragon, known for its fire-breathing energy, will be commemorated. Individuals born in 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, and 2012 also share this zodiac sign. Those born under this zodiac sign are believed to possess natural charisma, intelligence, confidence, and good luck.

Whether you were born during a dragon year or not, don’t miss the chance to participate in the breathtaking celebrations happening all over the country!

New York City

Chinatown’s annual Lunar New Year Celebration & Festival runs from February 10-25 and, in addition to the lively parade on February 25, there are all sorts of experiences throughout the run. From the opening Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival on Feb. 10 to events in Flushing, Brooklyn and more. Even Hudson Yards is getting in on the fun.

San Francisco

For an entire month (February 3-March 3), San Francisco celebrates the year of the dragon with its Chinese New Year Festival & Parade. Movie star Awkwafina is set to grand marshall the annual parade on February 24, while a flower market, a YMCA fun run, a community street fair and the Miss Chinatown Pageant and Coronation Ball all create a festive atmosphere to fete the Lunar New Year all month long.

Washington, DC

Did you know DC’s Chinatown has one of the largest ceremonial Friendship Arches outside of China? That alone is worth a visit to DC’s Chinatown, but every year they pull out all the stops for the Lunar New Year parade. Look for cultural and community performers to celebrate the Year of the Dragon–capped off by a firecracker show in the middle of H Street. Don’t forget to grab a meal at one of the authentic Chinatown eateries before or after the parade!

Boston

Home to the third largest Chinese community in the U.S., Boston goes big for its Chinese New Year parade. This year, the parade is on Feb. 18 and runs along a route for an impressive five hours. Look for troops of lion dancers, drums and cymbals, traditional firecrackers, plus great food. It’s the biggest annual celebration in Boston’s Chinatown and worth arriving early to get a great seat along the parade route!

Los Angeles

On February 17, Los Angeles’ Chinatown will mark its 125th Golden Dragon Parade. Tens of thousands of visitors line up on the parade route to watch marching bands, kung fu performers, lion dancers and Miss Chinatown Los Angeles march in celebration of the Year of the Dragon. Whether you live in Los Angeles or are visiting on a winter break, mark your calendar for this impressive parade.

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