Don’t be stubborn – it’s Chinese New Year on Bainbridge!

Array

February 6, 2009 1:00 am
A scene from the 2008 Chinese New Year Parade in Winslow.
A scene from the 2008 Chinese New Year Parade in Winslow.

Chinese year 4707 began on Jan. 26, but it’s not over ‘til it’s over; the island’s fourth annual Chinese New Year celebration is in full swing through the weekend.

Here’s what to look forward to for our weekend of the Year of the Ox:

  • The Seattle Chinese Orchestra returns to the island with a lively concert played on authentic Chinese musical instruments. This costumed blend of music and theater takes place at 7 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Island School, 8553 Day Rd.
  • The Chinese New Year Festival runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 8 in Winslow, where visitors will find delicious Chinese food, interactive cultural booths, a display of Chinese artifacts, fortune telling and other fun. At noon, cover your ears for the lighting of thousands of firecrackers by Mayor Darlene Kordonowy.
  • A parade down Winslow Way follows the big boom, led by Lion Dancers who bring good luck to all who attend. The traditional Chinese Lion Dance will be performed to exorcise evil spirits and summon good fortune. As festival organizers pointed out, we can all use some of that.

For more information about the Bainbridge Chinese New Year celebration, see www.bichineseconnection.org.