6 Ways To Celebrate Chinese New Year

Ring in the Year of the Dragon with festivities of food, song, dance, crafts and more!
Cheryl De Leon,
4 Chinese New Year

 

The first month of 2024 has come and gone, but we want you to keep wishing one another “Happy New Year!” through the first week of February. The biggest celebration in Chinese culture, Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year, takes place Saturday, Feb. 10, marking the first new moon that appears between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. The holiday also symbolizes the beginning of spring (though we all know there’s plenty of winter yet to come).

It’s the Year of the Dragon on the Chinese zodiac calendar, which celebrates the mythical animal’s energy and strength as well as the good fortune the creature is said to bring. Though Bergen County is home to more than 22,000 residents of Chinese descent, everyone can participate in the Lunar New Year events scheduled this month.

Below is a sampling of programs, activities and celebrations in Bergen that commemorate Chinese New Year:

  • 3–25, East Rutherford: Head to the American Dream mall for a month-long celebration, which includes a fashion show, dance competitions, opera night and more. Check the online schedule for exact dates and times of each event.
  • 3, Fort Lee: The free Lunar New Year Showcase at the Jack Alter Community Center features music and dance performances as well as lion dancers from the Chinese Freemasons Athletic Club.
  • 5, Hasbrouck Heights: Teach little ones (suitable for ages 4 to 8) about the history and culture of the holiday at the Hasbrouck Heights library’s free storytime with author Hui Li. In addition to the story, kids can learn the art of Chinese calligraphy. Registration is required.
  • 8, Hackensack: Bergen County holds its Lunar New Year celebration at 5:30 p.m. in the Conference Center at Two Bergen County Plaza. The free celebration includes food, music and cultural activities.
  • 10, Mahwah: The Mahwah Library is holding a Chinese New Year Celebration and Tea Tasting at 2 p.m. Attendees can sample snacks and learn Chinese tea preparation during a workshop presented by a certified tea specialist. Registration is required, and there is a $10 fee to cover supplies.
  • 11, Fort Lee: Nonprofit Chinese-American Family Coalition is holding a Chinese New Year Culture Fair at the Fort Lee Recreation Center. Tickets are free, but donations are requested.

How do you celebrate Chinese New Year? Tell us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.

 

Categories: Bergen Health & Life