Chinese New Year, or known to some as the Lunar New Year, is an annual celebration of the beginning of the new year on the Chinese calendar. This year, the official observance of Chinese New Year kicks off with the festival portion of the celebration on February 5, known as the Spring Festival in modern China. The celebration ends with what is known as the Lantern Festival, which takes place February 19. However, preparations for the festivities began as early as January 28.
Some of the major traditions associated with Chinese New Year include large family dinners, cleaning the home to wipe away negative energy and prepare for good luck in the new year, and decorating doors and windows with red decorations, such as paper lanterns. Each year is associated with one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. 2019 is the Year of the Pig.
Kentucky is one of the fortunate areas to feature a variety of celebrations and activities related to Chinese New Year. Attending any of these events is great opportunity to learn more about the wonderful traditions of Chinese New Year and appreciate Chinese culture.
2019 Chinese New Year Celebration by KYCAA- February 2, 2019
The Kentucky Chinese American Association is hosting a 2019 Chinese New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at Lexington Opera House (401 West Short Street Lexington, KY 40507). Festivities begin at 4:30pm. Tickets are required for attendance. This event includes food, crafts and special live performances. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.kycaa.org, or call (859) 224-8072.
Celebrate Chinese New Year at Louisville Chinese Christian Church- February 2, 2019
The Louisville Chinese Christian Church is hosting a Chinese New Year program on Saturday, February 2, 2019 from 7 to 8:30pm (6120 Lovers Lane, Louisville, KY 40291). The event includes Chinese dances, singing and games.
Chinese New Year Dinner with The Light Clinic- February 2, 2019
The Light Clinic invites everyone to join them at China Wok in Frankfort (Eastwood Shopping Center off Versailles Road, Frankfort, KY) on Saturday, February 2, 2019 from 5 to 7pm. The dinner will include music and fengshui activities, as well as a variety vegetarian options, soft drinks, domestic beer & wine. The cost is $16 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and younger. Payments will be accepted at China Wok. For the full list of information, visit http://www.thelightclinic.org/chinese-new-year-dinner-2019.html
Chinese New Year Cooking Class for Kids- February 5, 2019
Wild Thyme is hosting a cooking class for kids ages 7 to 14 on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 from 4:45 to 6pm with a menu inspired by the Chinese New Year. The menu includes Pork & Shrimp Egg Rolls, Sweet & Sour Chicken, Chinese Fried Rice, and Chinese Almond Cookies. The cost of the class is $35. For more information and to register, visit https://wildthymecooking.com/product/cits-chinese-new-year-ages-7-14/
Year of the Pig Virtual Running and Walking Challenge
Calling all runners, joggers, and walkers... Here is a fun opportunity to celebrate Chinese New Year and raise money for Parkinson's research. Participate in a virtual run by Tuesday, February 5, 2019 to receive a medal of completion and have part of your registration proceeds donated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-year-running-and-walking-challenge-year-of-the-pig-lexington-tickets-52600127397?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Attend a Shen Yun Performance
Though these events are not directly related to Chinese New Year, they are still a chance to get a feel of Chinese culture and an extremely entertaining form of artistic expression. Shen Yun Performing Arts has performances in Richmond, KY and nearby Dayton, OH throughout the end of January. For more information, visit https://www.shenyunperformingarts.org/
We hope these events inspire you to learn more about Chinese culture and traditions. Happy Year of the Pig!