In case you missed it, we are slithering into a Year of the Snake.
Though its official dates vary across different Asian cultures, the Lunar New Year is a celebration of the start of spring and a new year following a calendar on the lunar phases.
Not only is this a Year of the Snake, but more specifically the Wood Snake. The last few times we were in the snake year were: 2013, 2001, 1989, and 1977 + 1965 was the last time we were in the age of the Wood Snake.
Here are some ways to ring in the Lunar New Year the Chattanoogan way.
Collegedale Commons, Sunday, Feb. 2
Kick off the festivities in nearby Collegedale with the folks from High Point Chinese Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The festival will feature vendors, food, and live entertainment including dance, kung fu, and tai chi.
Tickets can be purchased for $7 for two different time slots: 12-3 p.m. + 4-7 p.m.
Asian Food & Gifts of Chattanooga, Saturday, Feb. 8
Stop by this local market on Hixson Pike for its annual parking lot takeover. You’ll see lion dances from the Chien Hong School of Kung Fu + dragon dances performed by the Chattanooga Chinese Dragon Dance Group starting at 10 a.m. This event is free to attend, and you’ll be able to enjoy complimentary snacks, drinks, and steamed buns.
Bonus: Joli Jardin’s Little Blume wagon will be on site for bouquet making.
Creative Discovery Museum, Saturday, Feb. 8
From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., you can stop by this playful museum that has been known to showcase lion dance performances, martial arts demonstrations + calligraphy in celebration of the Lunar New Year. All activities are included in admission pricing.
