Despite persistent showers, hundreds assembled in San Francisco’s Chinatown Tuesday to mark the Lunar New Year.
According to the Chinese calendar, the 4724th Lunar New Year, which started on Tuesday, is a “Year of the Fire Horse.” It is a rare zodiac year that occurs once every 60 years, according to a statement the San Francisco Chinese Chamber of Commerce.
Tuesday’s celebrations at Portsmouth Square Park included traditional performances by local groups, including a Chinese lion dance by Leung’s White Crane Dragon and Lion Dance Association and a Qipao walk. Qipao is a traditional Chinese outfit worn by women.
District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan addressed the assembly, wishing everyone a happy new year.
“In the Christian faith, there is faith, hope, and love, but it says that love is the most important key element of our community,” she said. “It is because of your love for our community that we get to be here to celebrate on Lunar New Year’s Day.”
Chan also helped distribute red envelopes containing $5 each to the hundreds who had lined up around the block. According to Chinese tradition, these red envelopes of money symbolize good luck and are exchanged on auspicious days like the Lunar New Year.
The celebrations in the city will continue over the next few days, culminating in the Chinese New Year Parade on March 7 and a community street fair on March 7 and 8.
San Francisco Sheriff Paul Miyamoto urged the community to celebrate safely, stressing that law enforcement would be available to support them.
“Hopefully, there will be wealth, prosperity, and happiness for everyone in this new year!” he said.