The dragon is said to be the luckiest symbol in the Chinese zodiac, and soothsayers are predicting a year of optimism, change and prosperity, so welcome it in grand fashion at Chinese New Year festivities. Sunday’s parade in Manhattan’s Chinatown is an annual spectacle of floats, musicians, magicians, acrobats and giant dragons dancing through neighborhood streets for hours. The parade usually winds throughout Chinatown along Mott, Canal, and Bayard streets, and along East Broadway.
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 4 pm, Sunday, January 29, 2012
Place: Canal Street South
The spectacle features elaborate floats, marching bands, lion and dragon dances galore, Asian musicians, magicians, acrobats and procession by local organizations. Over 5,000 people are expected to march in the parade, which will start at Mott Street and promenade through practically every street in of Chinatown, finally dispersing at Worth Street. The parade is expected to conclude at 3 pm, at which time an outdoor cultural festival will take place on Bayard Street featuring more performances by musicians, dancers and martial artists.