If you're in San Francisco on holiday over the next few weeks you're in for a treat as the celebrations get under way for Chinese New Year.
The Year of the Dragon is approaching, ruled by the fabulous beast that is the most powerful sign in the Chinese zodiac, and the San Francisco Bay area, with its rich tradition of Chinese culture has a host of events planned.
Whether you're up for running a 10K through Chinatown (prize for "Best Dressed Dragon") or inclined to slip into something a little more elegant for an Asian-themed concert at the San Francisco Symphony, here are five ways to welcome the dragon.
Watch the parade go by
Stepping off at Second and Market streets at on February 11th the Chinese New Year Parade features floats, dance teams, bands and other performances. The event is free, but bleacher-seat tickets can be purchased for $30 each. The event traces its roots to the 19th century, when Chinese immigrants showcased their culture using the all-American tradition of a parade. Details including maps and where to order tickets can be found at chineseparade.com.
Celebrate in concert
The San Francisco Symphony Chinese New Year Community concert and Celebration 2012 features a mix of music and instruments from East and West. The concert is on February 11th and early arrivers will be greeted with a family-friendly festival reception at 3 p.m. with arts and crafts, food, Asian instruments, lion dancers, Chinese calligraphers and more. Carolyn Kuan will conduct and the program includes the Yellow River piano concerto. Tickets are $15 to $68 and can be purchased at sfsymphony.org.
Start the year off on the right foot
The Chinatown YMCA holds its 34th annual Chinese New Year Run on February 19th. The route starts at Sacramento Street and Grant Avenue and winds through Chinatown. One route is a 10K and the other is a 5K. About 2,000 people are expected to take part in the event, which benefits the Chinatown YMCA Community Center. Register at ymcasf.org/Chinatown/.
Find the zodiac at the zoo
The San Francisco Zoo is commemorating the Lunar New Year from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on January 29th with Chinese acrobatic performances, traditional lion and folk dancing, Chinese yo-yo tricks and more. Visitors can take a self-guided zodiac tour leading them to animals found on the Chinese calendar. Visit sfzoo.org for more information.
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