Experience the Vibrant Celebrations of Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago
Celebrate Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago with parades, performances & cultural events. Discover the best ways to join in the festivities!
Get ready to ring in the Year of the Dog with a bang! Chicago's Chinatown is bustling with excitement as preparations for the Chinese New Year 2018 are underway. This year's festivities promise to be bigger and better than ever before, with a host of activities that will appeal to both young and old alike.
First and foremost, you can't miss the annual Lunar New Year Parade, which takes place on Sunday, February 25th. The parade is a feast for the senses, with colorful floats, lion dancers, and drummers parading through the streets of Chinatown. It's a great opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere and experience Chinese culture first-hand.
If you're a foodie, then you're in luck! Chinatown is home to some of the best Chinese cuisine in the city, and during Chinese New Year, the restaurants pull out all the stops. From dim sum to hot pot, there's something for everyone's taste buds. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try some traditional Chinese New Year dishes like dumplings and sticky rice cake?
For those who love a good bargain, the Chinatown Lunar New Year Sale is not to be missed. The sale runs from February 16th to 18th and features discounts on everything from clothing to jewelry to home goods. It's the perfect opportunity to pick up some unique souvenirs to remember your Chinese New Year experience.
But the festivities don't end there. Throughout the week leading up to Chinese New Year, there are a variety of events taking place in Chinatown. From art exhibits to cultural performances to workshops on Chinese calligraphy, there's something for everyone. And don't forget to visit the Chinatown Square Mall for some shopping and entertainment.
One of the highlights of this year's Chinese New Year celebrations is the Lantern Festival, which takes place on March 3rd. The festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year period and is traditionally celebrated with lanterns, lion dances, and fireworks. It's a magical event that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Of course, no Chinese New Year celebration would be complete without red envelopes! These lucky packets are filled with money and are given to children as a symbol of good luck. So if you see a child with a big smile on their face, you know they've just received a red envelope.
But perhaps the most important aspect of Chinese New Year is spending time with family and friends. It's a time to gather together, share a meal, and reflect on the past year. So why not join in the festivities and experience the warmth and hospitality of Chicago's Chinese community?
In conclusion, Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago promises to be an unforgettable experience. From the colorful parade to the mouth-watering food to the magical Lantern Festival, there's something for everyone. So mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and get ready to celebrate the Year of the Dog in style!
The Excitement of Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago
Chinese New Year is here and it’s time to celebrate! With its colorful traditions, fun activities, and scrumptious food, the Chinese New Year is truly a special event. And if you’re in Chicago, you’re in for a treat! The Windy City is all set to welcome the Year of the Dog with a bang. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect.
Parade and Performances
The Chinatown neighborhood in Chicago is where all the action is during the Lunar New Year. The festivities kick off with the annual parade, featuring lion and dragon dances, marching bands, and colorful floats. It’s a sight to behold! But that’s not all – there are also cultural performances showcasing traditional music, dance, and martial arts. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the famous Chinese acrobats!
Food, Glorious Food!
If you’re a foodie, then Chinese New Year is your paradise. Chicago has a plethora of Chinese restaurants serving up delicious dishes that are sure to tickle your taste buds. From savory dumplings and steaming hot pot to crispy Peking duck and sweet sesame balls, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to wash it all down with some refreshing bubble tea!
The Lucky Red Envelope
One of the most exciting traditions of Chinese New Year is the exchange of red envelopes. These little red packets, known as hongbao, contain money and are given as gifts to friends and family. It’s believed that the red color brings good luck and wards off evil spirits. So, if someone hands you a red envelope during the celebrations, don’t be shy – accept it with gratitude!
Decorations Galore
Chinese New Year is a time for decorating! Everywhere you look, you’ll see red lanterns, auspicious symbols, and colorful banners. In Chinese culture, these decorations are believed to bring good fortune and ward off bad luck. So, if you’re in Chicago during the Lunar New Year, don’t forget to take a stroll through Chinatown and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Fun for the Whole Family
Chinese New Year is a family-oriented celebration, so there are plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. From crafting workshops and calligraphy lessons to face painting and balloon art, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at traditional Chinese games like mahjong and wei qi.
The Year of the Dog
In the Chinese zodiac, each year is associated with an animal sign. 2018 is the Year of the Dog, which symbolizes loyalty, honesty, and kindness. People born in the Year of the Dog are said to be compassionate and protective, making them great friends and partners. If you’re born in the Year of the Dog, congratulations – this is your year!
Bring on the Fireworks
No celebration is complete without fireworks, and Chinese New Year is no exception. In China, fireworks are set off to scare away evil spirits and welcome the new year with a bang. In Chicago, the fireworks display takes place over the Chicago River, lighting up the night sky in a dazzling array of colors and patterns. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss!
Unity in Diversity
Chinese New Year is celebrated by millions of people around the world, regardless of their race or religion. It’s a time to come together and celebrate our shared humanity. In Chicago, the Lunar New Year celebrations are a testament to the city’s diversity and inclusivity. So, whether you’re Chinese or not, join in the festivities and embrace the spirit of unity.
A Time for Reflection
Finally, Chinese New Year is a time for reflection and renewal. It’s a chance to look back on the past year and set intentions for the future. In Chinese culture, the new year is seen as an opportunity to start fresh and make positive changes in your life. So, as you enjoy the celebrations in Chicago, take some time to reflect on what you want to achieve in the Year of the Dog.
In conclusion, Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago promises to be a wonderful celebration of culture, tradition, and community. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the holiday or a newcomer to the festivities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, put on your red clothes, grab your lucky red envelope, and get ready to ring in the Year of the Dog in style!
Are you ready to welcome the Year of the Dog in Chicago this Chinese New Year? Beware of the Dragon, as it might just snatch you away from all the fun and games. But don't worry, it's all in good fun. Join the parade and experience Chicago's infamous traffic first-hand. With floats, lion dancers, and acrobats, you'll forget all about being stuck in a jam. Plus, you'll receive fortune cookies galore - just remember to take their predictions with a grain of salt. And don't forget about the lucky red envelopes filled with cash. It's all about spreading good fortune, not greed.If you're a fan of dumplings, you're in luck. During Chinese New Year in Chicago, you'll find yourself surrounded by savory, steaming pockets of goodness wherever you go. And let's not forget about the fireworks displays that will light up the night sky - and your Instagram feed. Feast your eyes on the energetic and colorful lion dances that will be taking over the streets of Chicago. Just make sure to stand clear of the lion's path - it's not afraid to get up close and personal.Think you've got what it takes to row with the best of them? Join the dragon boat racing competition during Chinese New Year in Chicago and show off your skills. And for a good photo op, don't miss out on the lantern lighting displays that will be lighting up Chicago's parks and neighborhoods.To wrap up your trip to the windy city, say Happy New Year in style - Gong Hey Fat Choy! Whether you're a local or a tourist, the spirit of Chinese New Year is always contagious. So come join the festivities and celebrate the Year of the Dog in Chicago.Celebrating Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago
The Festivities
As a proud resident of Chicago, I can confidently say that the city knows how to celebrate Chinese New Year. This year, the festivities were bigger and better than ever before! The streets were decorated with red lanterns and banners that added a vibrant touch to the chilly winter weather.
The celebrations kicked off with a colorful parade that featured lion dancers, dragon dancers, and a plethora of other performers who entertained the crowds with their acrobatic skills. The parade was led by the Mayor of Chicago, who donned a traditional Chinese outfit and greeted the revelers with a warm smile.
After the parade, people flocked to Chinatown to enjoy various activities that were organized for the occasion. There were food stalls that served delicious Chinese cuisine, musical performances, and games that kept people of all ages engaged.
The Food
Ah, the food. It's impossible to talk about Chinese New Year without mentioning the mouth-watering delicacies that are an essential part of the celebrations. In Chicago, there was no shortage of options when it came to satisfying one's cravings for Chinese cuisine.
- Dumplings: These little pockets of joy were available in all shapes and sizes. There were steamed dumplings, fried dumplings, and even soup dumplings that oozed with flavor.
- Noodles: Long noodles are believed to bring good luck and longevity, so it's no surprise that they were a popular dish during the festivities. Whether you preferred stir-fried noodles or noodle soups, there was something for everyone.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and filled with a variety of ingredients, spring rolls were a hit among the revelers.
The Atmosphere
One of the things that stood out about the Chinese New Year celebrations in Chicago was the festive atmosphere. People from all walks of life came together to celebrate the occasion, and the sense of unity was palpable. It was heartwarming to see people of different cultures and backgrounds embracing Chinese traditions and immersing themselves in the celebrations.
As the day drew to a close, the crowds slowly dispersed, but the memories of the celebrations lingered on. It was a day filled with laughter, good food, and happy memories, and I can't wait to do it all over again next year.
Celebrating Chinese New Year in Chicago: A Hilarious Experience You Don't Want to Miss!
Thank you for joining us on this hilarious journey of celebrating the Chinese New Year in Chicago! We hope you had as much fun reading about it as we did experiencing it. With all the food, drinks, and festivities, we're sure you're already planning your trip to next year's celebration!
As we conclude our adventure, we want to share some final thoughts with you. First of all, if you haven't tried the traditional Chinese dumplings yet, then you're missing out on life! Trust us; they're worth the long lines and the occasional elbow to the ribcage.
Secondly, don't be afraid to join in on the dancing and singing! You might feel a bit awkward at first, but once you get into the rhythm, you'll be having the time of your life. Plus, it's an excellent way to burn off all the calories from the delicious food you'll be indulging in.
Now, let's talk about the dragon parade. If you're anything like us, you probably found yourself getting caught up in the excitement of the moment. But be warned, the dragon can get a bit rowdy, so make sure you hold onto your belongings tightly! It's not every day that you get to see a giant dragon dancing down the street, so enjoy the show while it lasts.
As the night wears on, you'll notice that the crowds start to thin out. This is the perfect time to explore the city and take in the beautiful sights of Chicago. From the glittering skyline to the serene Lake Michigan, there's no shortage of breathtaking views to enjoy.
But before you hit the hay, make sure you stop by one of the many bars or clubs in the area. You never know what kind of shenanigans you might get into, and we guarantee you'll have some hilarious stories to tell your friends back home.
As we say goodbye, we want to remind you that celebrating Chinese New Year in Chicago is an experience like no other. It's a time to let loose, eat some delicious food, and embrace a new culture. So, whether you're a local or a tourist, make sure you mark your calendar for next year's celebration!
Thank you once again for joining us on this journey, and we hope to see you at the next Chinese New Year celebration in Chicago!
What People Also Ask About Chinese New Year 2018 in Chicago
What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated at the turn of the lunar calendar year. It is a time for families to come together, enjoy delicious food, and honor ancestors.
When is Chinese New Year 2018?
Chinese New Year 2018 falls on Friday, February 16th. The festivities usually last for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival on March 2nd.
What are some traditions associated with Chinese New Year?
- Red decorations: Red is believed to bring luck and ward off evil spirits, so you'll see plenty of red lanterns, banners, and decorations during Chinese New Year.
- Dragon and lion dances: These colorful performances involve dancers wearing elaborate dragon or lion costumes and parading through the streets to the beat of drums and cymbals.
- Fireworks: Fireworks are a big part of Chinese New Year celebrations, as they are thought to scare away evil spirits.
- Gift giving: It is customary to give red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried adults during Chinese New Year.
- New Year's Eve dinner: Families gather to enjoy a lavish feast on New Year's Eve, with various dishes symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
What events are happening in Chicago for Chinese New Year 2018?
Chicago has a number of events planned to celebrate Chinese New Year, including:
- The Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade on Sunday, February 25th, featuring floats, marching bands, and lion dancers.
- The Chinese American Museum of Chicago's annual New Year celebration on Saturday, February 17th, with food, music, and traditional performances.
- The Art Institute of Chicago's After Dark: Happy New Year event on Friday, February 16th, featuring art activities, music, and food inspired by Chinese New Year.
Can non-Chinese people celebrate Chinese New Year?
Absolutely! Chinese New Year is a time for everyone to come together and celebrate. Just be respectful of the traditions and customs associated with the holiday.
What should I wear to celebrate Chinese New Year?
Red is the most auspicious color for Chinese New Year, so wearing red clothing or accessories is a great way to get into the spirit of the holiday. Gold and yellow are also lucky colors.
Is it true that you shouldn't sweep during Chinese New Year?
Yes, it is believed that sweeping during Chinese New Year can sweep away good luck. It's best to do all your cleaning before the holiday begins.
What does the Year of the Dog signify?
The Year of the Dog is said to be a year of loyalty, honesty, and friendship. It is a good time to focus on building strong relationships with family and friends.
Are there any famous Chinese New Year superstitions?
One famous superstition is that eating long noodles during Chinese New Year will bring long life. Another is that wearing new clothes on New Year's Day will bring good luck throughout the year.
Can I eat Chinese food during Chinese New Year?
Of course! Chinese New Year is a great time to enjoy all your favorite Chinese dishes. Just be sure to try some traditional New Year's foods, such as dumplings, tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls), and niangao (sticky rice cake).
What's the best way to wish someone a Happy Chinese New Year?
The most common greeting is Xin Nian Kuai Le, which means Happy New Year in Mandarin. You can also say Gong Xi Fa Cai, which means Wishing you great happiness and prosperity.