Chinese New Year in Dunedin

Last Thursday, Todd and I headed downtown to welcome in the Year of the Rabbit by taking part in the Chinese New Year celebrations.  The evening started with a dragon parade from the Octagon (the center of downtown) to the Dunedin Chinese Gardens.  (To read more about the Garden and see pictures, check out the blog post about our visit in October by clicking here.)

There was a lot of community participation from young dragon handlers to older musicians and tres chic dancers.

  

Upon arrival at the Chinese Gardens, the dragon and the parade, which at this point included all the spectators as well, were greeted with firecrackers and a lion dance.  The gardens were open, and in addition to food stalls, there were several performances featuring traditional songs, instruments, and dances.

It was a great way to spend the evening ...even if your couldn't find matching boots!