Where to Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Chinatown, New York City

It can take you a few days to explore the entire area known as Chinatown in New York City, so you'll need a plan for celebrations during the Chinese New Year. The Chinese New Year falls on February 7 in 2008 to honor the Year of the Rat. Chinatown in New York City is one of the best places to experience this annual tradition, a place to watch parades, sample special foods, and explore cultural exhibitions and performances. If you're heading to New York City for the Chinese New Year this year, here's where to set your sights:

Chinese New Year Celebrations on Mott Street & Canal Street, New York City
Start your Chinese New Year celebrations in the heart of Chinatown on these busy streets. The area will be filled with Chinese lanterns, decorations, and it's also the site of the Chinese Community Center. Take part in the firecracker ceremony in the afternoon, followed by dance performances and music; the annual parade usually starts here, and wraps around all the way to East Broadway. If you feel the shopping bug coming on, you'll find an assortment of jewelry stores to pick up your fair share of shiny goods.

Chinese New Year Celebrations on Doyers Street, New York City
Doyers Street in New York City is where you'll find some of the city's best tea houses. Head here for boutique shopping and an authentic China experience that many filmmakers have caught on to as well. This street has been used in many TV programs as the stage for Chinatown, and you can visit with local merchants to find a great bargain. Be sure to pick up some red envelopes, festive lanterns, and any other New Year souvenirs during the revelries.

Chinese New Year Celebrations on East Broadway, New York City
When you've worked up an appetite from shopping and exploring, head to East Broadway for some authentic snacks and meals. Take your pick of egg rolls, dim sum, potstickers, and sticky rice cake from vendors around this historical Chinatown neighborhood. Food stalls will be setup throughout the day so you don't have to settle for just one place; work your way through the food stands for traditional appetizers and snacks .