Chester to come alive with sound and colour on 28 January
10 January 2012
A
magnificent dragon will parade through the streets of Chester as
part of this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations.
Saturday, 28 January will see a traditional Chinese Dragon,
over 10 metres long, “manned” by more than 20 people, dancing
through the streets. The event is supported by Cheshire West and
Chester Council.
The celebrations will also include firecrackers, Tai Chi
demonstrations, Chinese fan dancing and other cultural
displays.
The Chinese zodiac calendar follows a 12-year cycle, meaning the
Year of the Dragon is your year if you were born in 1928, 1940,
1952, 1964, 1976 ,1988 or 2000. The Chinese dragon is a symbol of
power and wisdom.
Chinese New Year changes its date every year because it is
determined by the moon (the lunar calendar).
Legend has it that in ancient times, Buddha asked all the
animals to meet him on Chinese New Year. Twelve came and Buddha
named a year after each one (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake,
Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig). He announced that people
born in each animals year would have some of that animal’s
personality.
Chair of the Wah Lei Chinese Association, Mia Tan, said: “The
year of the Dragon IS the most anticipated and best-loved symbol of
the Chinese Zodiac. This year’s celebrations will be even brighter,
louder and more colourful than last year’s.
“In Chinese astrology a dragon person tends to be a "doer" –
they do things and achieve power by getting things done. A dragon
can also breathe fire so the person born in the Chinese Year of the
Dragon can be a hothead. So, watch out if you make them angry.”
Leader of the Council, Councillor Mike Jones added: “I’m
delighted that we are able to support this marvellous event for the
third year. It is so good to see the Wah Lei Chinese Association go
from strength to strength. I’m sure the centre of Chester will be
alive with sound and colour on Saturday 28 January thanks to
all their hard work.”
For more information go to the Wah Lei Chinese Association
website.