Chinese New Year in Seattle 2008: Year of the Rat

The Chinese New Year is also referred to as the Spring Festival, the Lunar New Year and the Lantern Festival. It falls on a different date every year: for the most part on the second new moon after the winter solstice. This year it falls on Thursday February 7^th although the Chinese New Year festivities are not limited to that date. Here in the Seattle area, there are celebrations from the weekend before up to the weekend after. Below is a sampling of the many activities available for those living in or visiting the area:

February 02-

What:
Cooking experience with Ming-Ming Tung-Edelman. Learn to make a full 7 course Chinese New Year meal where everyone will get a chance to sample each dish and take home a copy of the recipes.

When:
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where:
Laurelhurst Community Center
4554 NE 41st St., Seattle 98105

Who:
Ages 18 and up

Cost:
$45 per person
Offered through the Seattle park and recreation department.

February 02 -

What:
Chinese New Year Gala including entertainment, a traditional feast, a Luly Yang fashion show and a silent auction.

When:
Doors open at 5:00 p.m./ Dinner starts at 7:00 p.m.

Where:
Sheraton Seattle 1400 Sixth Avenue Seattle 98101

Who:
Adults

Cost:
Ranging from $88 for an individual, $880 for a table, $1500 for a corporate sponsor up to $10,000 for a Phoenix sponsor!
Presented by the Hong Kong Association of Washington, along with the National Association of Asian American Professionals - Seattle Chapter. andy.yip@naaapseattle.org (206) 621-9000

February 09-

What:
Seattle's Chinatown-International District celebrats the Year of the Rat! Multicultural entertainment, Asian-inspired arts & crafts, food and booths. There are also children's activities and it is a great place to catch the Lion and Dragon dances

When:
2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Where:
Union Station Great Hall, 401 South Jackson Street in Seattle's Chinatown/International District

Who:
Wonderful event for the whole family

Cost:
FREE
Put on by Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA)

February 09-