Windsor celebrates Year of the Snake with Lunar New Year bash
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Lunar New Year excitement filled Devonshire Mall on Sunday as the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association united the community in celebration of the Year of the Snake.
An afternoon of vibrant performances — from dragon dancing to kung fu demonstrations — wowed the crowds, offering the local Chinese community a chance to share their traditions and culture with the public.
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“Although we are Canadian, we still remember our roots,” said Catherine Fung, director of arts, culture and events for the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association.
“Every Chinese New Year we host this program. We want to introduce and promote our culture to everybody and to all other cultures.”
With an expected 400 attendees, Fung said the festivities in front of Hudson’s Bay offered more than just entertainment — there were also calligraphy demonstrations, zodiac readings, traditional tea and candy samples, and arts and crafts.
The God of Fortune also made an appearance, handing out lucky money in red envelopes along with well wishes to small children.
“I’m very happy to be a part of this event,” volunteer Stella Ngai told the Star. “I’ve been living in Windsor for over 20 years and I admire it for being such a multicultural city. We are happy to share our culture with the public.
“The Chinese New Year is the biggest event of the year — there’s a lot joy, laughter, and fun. We want to share that with everybody. That’s our main goal.”
In Chinese astrology, each year in a 12-year cycle relates to a Chinese zodiac animal. The snake occupies the sixth position of the Chinese Zodiac and is associated with wisdom, charm, elegance, and transformation.
The ECCCA will hold its 50th annual gala on the night of February 22 at the Ciociaro Club, 3745 North Talbot Rd. Reception begins at 5:30 p.m., with a 10-course meal served at 7:30 p.m.
Cultural performances will start at 6:30 p.m., and the public is invited to dance at 9:30 p.m. The gala will have a raffle and door prizes.
Tickets are $150, and can be purchased by calling 519-252-6621 or emailing [email protected].
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