Chinese New Year of the Rat Starts February 2, 2008

Looking for a great way to bring in the Chinese New Year? Well, no matter where you might be in North America, you'll find plenty of wonderful events and activities to celebrate the Chinese New Year below!

First, let's check in with San Francisco to see what they're doing to celebrate the Chinese New Year! Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Parade will be happening on Saturday, February 23 at 5:30 pm. This historical event, which has been going on since Gold Rush days, will be televised - but why not check it out yourself? Over a hundred different groups will be walking the parade route including Miss Chinatown USA herself! Among the dozens of exotic floats and displays will be the fantastic Gum Lung, or Golden Dragon, weaving his way through the streets. It takes over a hundred men and women to escort this fabulous creature along the parade route, so be sure to get your seat early to witness this spectacle!

But don't just stop there! Why not take in the Chinese New Year Flower Fair as well? Held in Chinatown this free event happens over two days and is sure to dazzle your senses! Chinese tradition says that if you have a plant that blooms on New Year's Day you'll have a year of prosperity - and what better way to start the Chinese New Year than with the promise of luck? A petting zoo and other activities for children will keep the little ones busy while the adults enjoy the peach blossoms and orchids along with fruits such as oranges and tangerines. These fruits are considered to bestow good luck and happiness on the owners, so why not pick up a few?

Another fabulous parade for the Chinese New Year will be held to the North, in Vancouver Canada! This Chinese community is over a hundred years old and will be celebrating the Chinese New Year with a wonderful and colorful parade! And while you're there check out the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden and have a cup of Chinese tea while taking in the Friday Night musical performances. At a low cost of only $10 per adult and family rates available, why not spend the Chinese New Year exploring this serene and peaceful garden?