By Alice Moreno
The Year of the Snake celebration kicked off in Chinatown on February 16. Though the rain poured through most of the parade, hundreds of guests still attended to bring in the New Year joyfully.
The annual parade began at 1:00 p.m. on Mott Street, between Broome and Canal St., and continued further into Chinatown, going through Little Italy and SoHo. Giant puppet dragons were covered in plastic bags to ward off the rain and a sea of ponchos were scattered throughout Chinatown. Confetti flew through the skies, easily sticking to those who were drenched, and various goodies, such as a light-up, “2025” glasses, and red envelopes — which symbolize good luck — were passed around to guests.
Various communities, organizations, and public figures were in attendance, such as the Chinese Counsel General of NY Chen Li and Senator Chuck Schumer.
The parade was first held in 1998 and each year, the turnout becomes grander, becoming a cultural staple in the community. Each year, the Chinese Zodiac has a rotation of animals that represent a year. Folklore states that the Jade Emperor held a race, and the animals who ran the quickest through a river current were selected. It is even said that cats and rats have a longtime rivalry due to this race!
Though the year of the snake comes every 12 years, every 60 years, one of five elements — known as Wuxing in the realm of traditional Chinese philosophy — is paired with the year, symbolizing certain phenomenons that occur and affect the world we live in, according to The Collector. This year is the Wood Snake, which is marked by a rise in personal growth, transformation, and change. Many guests wear red, which is said to bring good luck and prosperity for the Lunar New Year.
A parade-goer holds a sign from the District Attorney of New York County, celebrating the Year of the Snake.
Chen Li, the Chinese Consul General (second from left) joins other members of the consulate in the Lunar New Year Parade.
A parade-goer bangs the cymbals as she passes through Mott St.
Parade members carried a plethora of props filled with Lunar New Year symbolism.
Representatives of Panda Mobile walk through the parade.
A volunteer at the parade gave out a variety of goodies, including the “2025” glasses and red envelopes with stickers inside.
A red lion puppet flows through the parade with grace.
A vibrant, neon-colored dragon was the first to go through, signaling the start of the parade.
A flag for the “New York Choy Lay Fut, ” which is known as “New York’s Premier Lion Dance Team,” according to their Instagram.
