Discover the Best Festivities of Chinese New Year 2018 in Los Angeles: A Vibrant Celebration of Culture and Tradition!
Celebrate Chinese New Year 2018 in Los Angeles with colorful parades, traditional performances, and mouth-watering food.
#ChineseNewYearLAIt's that time of the year again, folks! The Chinese New Year 2018 is just around the corner, and you know what that means - it's time to get your red outfits out and start celebrating! Los Angeles has always been known to throw one of the biggest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia, and this year is no exception. From parades to street food, fireworks to lion dances, LA is pulling out all the stops to welcome the Year of the Dog with a bang. So grab your friends and family, and let's take a closer look at what this year's festivities have in store!
First things first - the parade. This year's Chinese New Year parade in LA will be held on February 17th, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever before. With over 100,000 people expected to attend, the parade will feature floats, marching bands, dancers, and of course, the iconic dragon and lion dances. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some celebrities in attendance.
But what's a parade without some delicious food? LA's Chinatown has got you covered. From traditional dishes like dumplings and noodles to modern fusion cuisine, you'll find something to satisfy your taste buds. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try some exotic treats like fried scorpions or chicken feet? Hey, when in Rome...
If you're looking for some family-friendly activities, head over to the Chinese American Museum. They'll be hosting a variety of events throughout the day, including calligraphy demonstrations, paper lantern making, and even a pet adoption fair. Who knows, maybe you'll even find your new furry friend to ring in the Year of the Dog with!
Of course, no Chinese New Year celebration is complete without fireworks. And LA is not one to disappoint. The fireworks show at the end of the parade is always a crowd-pleaser, but if you're looking for something more intimate, head over to the Los Angeles State Historic Park. They'll be hosting their own fireworks display, complete with food trucks and live music.
But let's not forget the real reason we celebrate Chinese New Year - to bring good luck and prosperity into our lives. And what better way to do that than by visiting a temple? LA's Hsi Lai Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Western Hemisphere, and they'll be hosting a variety of events throughout the week, including meditations, blessings, and even a vegetarian food festival.
And if you're still not satisfied, why not check out some of the other events happening around LA during Chinese New Year? From a traditional lion dance at the Grove to a dumpling-making workshop in Pasadena, there's something for everyone. So come on, don't be a party-pooper. Let's ring in the Year of the Dog the right way!
In conclusion, if you're in LA during Chinese New Year 2018, you're in for a treat. With parades, food, fireworks, and more, there's never been a better time to celebrate the rich culture and traditions of the Chinese community. So put on your red outfit, grab your lucky money, and get ready for a year filled with happiness, health, and prosperity. Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Los Angeles Prepares for Chinese New Year 2018
It's that time of the year again when Angelenos will put on their red and gold outfits to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The streets of Los Angeles will be filled with lion dancers, firecrackers, and dragon parades to mark the start of the Year of the Dog. But how did this tradition start in LA? Let's take a closer look.
The Beginnings of Chinese New Year in LA
Believe it or not, the first Chinese New Year celebration in Los Angeles was held in 1898, making it one of the oldest festivals in the city. Back then, the Chinese American community was still small, but they managed to organize a parade on North Spring Street. Fast forward to today, and the celebration has grown into a massive event, drawing crowds from all over Southern California.
Chinatown's Role in LA's Chinese New Year
Chinatown has always been the epicenter of Chinese culture in LA, and it's no different during Chinese New Year. The neighborhood is home to some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and galleries, which will all be open for business during the festivities. You can also catch lion dances and other performances at the Central Plaza, the heart of Chinatown.
What to Expect at the Main Event: Golden Dragon Parade
The Golden Dragon Parade is the highlight of Chinese New Year in LA, and it's not hard to see why. The parade features floats, marching bands, and of course, a giant golden dragon that weaves through the streets of Chinatown. The parade starts at Hill and Ord Streets and ends at Broadway and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Food and Drinks You Don't Want to Miss
No celebration is complete without food, and Chinese New Year is no exception. Head to Chinatown for some of the best Chinese cuisine in LA. Some must-try dishes include dumplings, spring rolls, and noodles. And don't forget to wash it all down with some boba tea or Tsingtao beer.
Other Activities to Check Out
If you're looking for something other than the parade, Chinatown has plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. Visit the Chinese American Museum for a history lesson, or browse the shops on Chung King Road for unique souvenirs. You can also watch a martial arts demonstration or participate in a calligraphy workshop.
How to Get There
Chinatown is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the Metro Gold Line to Chinatown Station, or hop on a bus that stops in the neighborhood. If you're driving, be prepared for heavy traffic and limited parking. It's best to take public transit if possible.
What to Wear
Traditionally, red and gold are the colors of Chinese New Year, so it's a good idea to incorporate them into your outfit. You can wear a red dress or shirt, or accessorize with a gold scarf or jewelry. Just make sure you wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking!
Safety Tips
As with any large event, it's important to take safety precautions during Chinese New Year. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, and stay aware of your surroundings. Be careful when setting off fireworks or firecrackers, and follow all instructions from parade officials and law enforcement.
Final Thoughts
Chinese New Year in Los Angeles is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won't want to miss. Whether you're a longtime Angeleno or a first-time visitor, this celebration is sure to leave you with lasting memories. So put on your red and gold, grab some dumplings, and get ready to ring in the Year of the Dog!
Rat-tastic Celebrations: Chinese New Year Takes Over LA
Hold onto your hats, folks! The Lunar New Year has arrived in Los Angeles, and it's time to get your party on. Forget about Hollywood - this year it's all about the dragons, dumplings, and lucky money exchanges. From cultural events to entertainment, LA is pulling out all the stops to welcome the Year of the Pig in style. So put on your red outfit, grab some firecrackers, and let's dive into the rat-tastic celebrations.
Forget Hollywood, It's All About the Dragons: Parade Fun in LA
If you thought the Rose Parade was the biggest thing in LA, think again. The Chinese New Year Parade is where it's at, with a colorful array of floats, lion dancers, and of course, dragons. Get ready to be awestruck by the 100-foot long Golden Dragon, which takes more than 100 people to carry. And don't miss the chance to catch some lucky red envelopes tossed out by the parade participants. Just be warned - the competition can get fierce.
Get Your Fill of Dumplings: LA's Chinese New Year Food Scene
Let's be real - one of the best parts of any celebration is the food. And Chinese New Year is no exception. LA's food scene is bursting with traditional dishes like dumplings, noodles, and rice cakes. Head to Chinatown for some of the best dim sum you'll ever taste. Or if you're feeling adventurous, try some stinky tofu or pig's feet. Just make sure to leave room for dessert - sweet glutinous rice balls are a must-try.
No Red Envelope Left Behind: Lucky Money Exchange in LA
Speaking of red envelopes, it's not just the parade where you can snag some lucky money. Many businesses in LA offer red envelopes to customers during the New Year period. Just make sure to bring your A-game - it's customary to exchange red envelopes in even numbers. And if you're feeling really lucky, head to a temple for a more traditional blessing ceremony.
Finding Your Zen: LA's Chinese New Year Cultural Events
Chinese New Year isn't all about the partying - it's also a time for reflection and renewal. LA offers a range of cultural events to help you find your Zen. Check out a calligraphy or tai chi class, or attend a tea ceremony. And don't miss the chance to visit the Huntington Library's Chinese Garden, which is offering special tours and demonstrations during the New Year period.
A Sparkling Night: Chinese New Year Fireworks in LA
No celebration is complete without some fireworks, and Chinese New Year is no exception. Head to one of LA's many parks or beaches to catch a dazzling display of pyrotechnics. Just be sure to get there early - these shows are popular and tend to get crowded quickly.
Oops, I Ate Too Much: Overindulging at LA's New Year Market
With all the delicious food on offer, it's easy to overindulge during Chinese New Year. And nowhere is this more true than at LA's New Year Market. This outdoor market offers everything from snacks to clothing to decorations, all in a festive atmosphere. But beware - the crowds can be intense, and the temptation to buy everything in sight is strong. Just remember to pace yourself.
What's Your Zodiac Sign Say About You? LA's Chinese Astrology Scene
If you're curious about what the Year of the Pig has in store for you, look no further than LA's Chinese astrology scene. Many temples and fortune tellers offer readings and predictions based on your zodiac sign. Whether you're a rat, ox, or tiger, there's sure to be some insight to be gained.
From Lion Dancers to K-Pop Concerts: LA's Chinese New Year Entertainment
Chinese New Year isn't just about tradition - it's also about entertainment. And LA is pulling out all the stops this year. From lion dancers to K-pop concerts, there's something for everyone. Catch a performance by the Shaolin Warriors, or check out the Chinese American Museum's film festival. And if you're feeling daring, enter the dumpling-eating contest at the Santa Anita Park.
Saying Goodbye to the Dog, Hello to the Pig: LA's 2018 New Year Festivities
As we bid farewell to the Year of the Dog, we look forward to the Year of the Pig with excitement. And LA's celebrations are sure to make it a year to remember. So come out and join the festivities - eat some dumplings, catch a dragon dance, and let's ring in the New Year in style.
A Hilarious Chinese New Year in the City of Angels
The Festivities
As a tourist visiting Los Angeles, I was lucky enough to witness the colorful and vibrant celebration of the Chinese New Year. The streets were filled with dragon dancers, fireworks, and delicious food vendors. It was definitely a feast for the senses!
One of the highlights of the festival was the parade. It was a massive event that showcased the rich cultural traditions of the Chinese community. The floats were adorned with intricate designs and colors, while the performers were in their traditional costumes. The sound of the drums and cymbals reverberated through the streets, and people of all ages and races were cheering and taking photos. It was truly a sight to behold!
The Food
Of course, no celebration is complete without food. And boy, did the Chinese New Year deliver! From dumplings to noodles, from dim sum to mooncakes, there was an endless array of treats to indulge in. I even tried some exotic dishes like sea cucumber and jellyfish salad. It wasn't exactly my cup of tea, but I appreciated the adventurous spirit of the cuisine.
However, the funniest part of the food experience was when I tried to use chopsticks. I ended up flinging bits of food all over the place, much to the amusement of the locals. They were kind enough to teach me some tricks, but I still couldn't quite master it. Oh well, at least I got a good laugh out of it!
The Customs
Another interesting aspect of the Chinese New Year was learning about the customs and superstitions surrounding it. For example, red is considered a lucky color, so people would wear red clothing and decorations. They also believed in the importance of cleaning their homes to sweep away any bad luck from the previous year. And of course, there was the famous tradition of giving red envelopes filled with money to the children. I may be a grown-up, but I wouldn't say no to some extra cash!
Conclusion
All in all, the Chinese New Year in Los Angeles was a hilarious and unforgettable experience. The people were friendly and welcoming, the sights and sounds were breathtaking, and the food was... well, let's just say it was an adventure! If you ever get the chance to celebrate the Chinese New Year, don't hesitate. It's a wonderful way to immerse yourself in a rich and fascinating culture.
Keywords | Description |
---|---|
Chinese New Year | The annual festival that marks the start of the lunar new year in Chinese culture. |
Los Angeles | A city located in California, USA that is known for its diverse population and cultural attractions. |
Dragon dancers | Performers who dance with a dragon costume, often accompanied by drums and cymbals, to bring good luck and fortune. |
Parade | A procession of performers and floats that showcases a particular theme or celebration. |
Dumplings | A type of food consisting of small pieces of dough filled with meat, vegetables, or other ingredients. |
Chopsticks | A pair of small sticks used to pick up food in Chinese and other Asian cultures. |
Red envelopes | Small envelopes filled with money that are given as gifts during special occasions, such as the Chinese New Year. |
Celebrate Chinese New Year 2018 in Los Angeles
Well folks, that about wraps up our discussion about Chinese New Year 2018 celebrations in Los Angeles. We hope you found this blog post informative and entertaining. If you're still on the fence about attending any of the events we've discussed, let us give you one final nudge to join in on the festivities.
First and foremost, if you're a foodie, you won't want to miss out on the mouth-watering cuisine that will be served up at the various street fairs and festivals. From dumplings to noodles, there's sure to be something to satisfy your taste buds.
But it's not just about the food. The parades, dragon dances, and cultural performances will transport you to another world. You'll forget you're in Los Angeles and feel like you've been magically transported to China.
And let's not forget about the shopping opportunities. Who doesn't love a good bargain? You'll find plenty of vendors selling traditional Chinese goods that you won't be able to resist picking up.
If you're worried about getting lost in the crowds, don't be. The organizers have made sure to provide ample security personnel to keep everyone safe. All you need to worry about is having fun!
And speaking of having fun, why not bring along some friends or family members to share in the experience with you? It's always more enjoyable to celebrate with loved ones.
Now, we realize that some of you might be hesitant to attend because you're not familiar with Chinese customs and traditions. But fear not! You don't need to be an expert to enjoy the festivities. Just come with an open mind and a willingness to learn and you'll have a great time.
Plus, who knows? You might even make some new friends along the way. The Chinese community in Los Angeles is a friendly and welcoming group, and they're always happy to share their culture with others.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and experience one of the most exciting and vibrant celebrations in the world. You won't regret it!
Thanks for reading our blog post about Chinese New Year 2018 in Los Angeles. We hope to see you at one of the events soon!
People Also Ask About Chinese New Year 2018 Los Angeles
What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China. It is celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar, which usually falls between late January and mid-February.
How is Chinese New Year celebrated in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles has one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia. The festivities typically include a parade with colorful floats, lion and dragon dancers, and firecrackers. There are also cultural performances, food vendors, and other activities held throughout the city.
When is Chinese New Year 2018?
Chinese New Year 2018 falls on February 16th.
Where can I watch the Chinese New Year parade in Los Angeles?
The Chinese New Year parade in Los Angeles is held in Chinatown. You can watch the parade from the street or purchase tickets for grandstand seating.
What are some traditional Chinese New Year foods?
- Dumplings: These are a symbol of wealth and good fortune.
- Niangao: This is a sticky rice cake that represents progress and prosperity.
- Spring rolls: These are a symbol of wealth and prosperity because they look like gold bars.
Is it appropriate to give gifts during Chinese New Year?
Yes, it is customary to give red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried adults during Chinese New Year. The amount of money should be an even number, but not 4, which is considered unlucky.
What are some other customs associated with Chinese New Year?
- Cleaning the house: This is done to sweep away any bad luck or negative energy from the past year.
- Wearing red: Red is considered a lucky color and is worn to ward off evil spirits.
- Reunion dinner: Families gather together for a big feast on New Year's Eve to celebrate the start of the new year.