Gung Hay Fat Choy!
With Chinese New Year, Feb. 3, fast approaching, many across Scarborough are hopping at the opportunity to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit.
The Scarborough Town Centre has an array of free shows and festivities for the entire family planned for Jan. 29 at 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m., and Jan. 30 at 2 and 4 p.m.
“Chinese New Year is huge at STC,” Town Centre marketing director Jai Lee said. “The best part is you don’t have to be Chinese to enjoy this festive event. There’s something for everyone.”
Set to start the two days off is a traditional Chinese lion dance, said to bring good luck and fortune. Martial arts demonstrations, chop sticks competitions, the arrival of the God of Fortune and 300-year-old tradition called changing faces are also planned.
“We’d like to introduce different Chinese traditions to all” Lee said. “The MCs for the event will speak in Mandarin, Cantonese and English. It’s not just performances, it’s a learning experience.”
More Chinese New Year celebrations are planned across from Scarborough Town Centre at the Scarborough Civic Centre, hosted by the Chi-Ping Dance Group and CPDG Cultural Arts Association.
“Lion dance will kick off the ceremony and councillors, MPP & MP will join us to celebrate,” choreographer Chi Ping Lau said.
The free event is is set for 2 to 4 p.m. on Feb. 6.