Celebrating Lunar New Year at the Concourse
A Celebration of Asian Cultures
Lunar New Year, the biggest holiday of Asian cultures, was on display down at the Empire Plaza Concourse. This year is all about the snake.
The Significance of the Snake
“I’m told the snake traditionally had the head of a woman and she used her body to create the galaxy,” explained Scott Bogareus, Chinese Community Center Building Manager.
As a zodiac animal, the snake represents wisdom, elegance, and transformation. All around the Concourse were snakes, not live ones though, from costumes to crafts. “You don’t have to be Chinese to be in the Chinese Community Center,” stated Bogareus. “You just have to want to learn and participate.”
A New Tradition
A first for the holiday here in New York is that kids in public school have the day off. “The celebrations need to occur and then people need to go back home with their families so I think that would be really bad if it was not an official holiday,” said Charlotte Huang.
A Global Celebration
Huang described to NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski that back home in China, Lunar New Year is the most important holiday. With her family thousands of miles away, it’s nice to share something so important with everyone. “I don’t think Albany has a large Asian community compared to like New York City or Boston but it’s great that they celebrate here and I’ve seen so many events.”
Upcoming Events
The Chinese Community Center is also hosting the following events as part of its 52nd annual Lunar New Year celebrations:
- Lunar New Year Gala Show at The Egg on February 2 from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This event will be emceed by NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski.
- An event at the St. Gregory School on February 11 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- An event at the Schenectady Senior Center on February 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Conclusion
The Lunar New Year celebrations at the Concourse were a wonderful display of Asian cultures and traditions. With events and activities for all ages, it was a great way to learn and participate in this important holiday.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the snake in Lunar New Year celebrations?
A: The snake represents wisdom, elegance, and transformation in the zodiac animal cycle.
Q: Why is Lunar New Year an important holiday?
A: Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in China and is a time for families to come together and celebrate new beginnings.
Q: Can anyone participate in Lunar New Year celebrations?
A: Yes, anyone can participate in Lunar New Year celebrations, regardless of their cultural background. The Chinese Community Center welcomes people of all backgrounds to learn and participate in their traditions.
