The Lunar New Year began in Montreal's Chinatown – Montreal

With temperatures just right, no snow in sight and the sun shining, hundreds of Montrealers gathered in the heart of Chinatown to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

“We have a parade, a lion dance, a dragon dance, we talk about drums, fashion shows, a lot of things, and we expect a lot of people,” said festival organizer YiFang Eva Hu.

This year is the year of the wood dragon.

“The wooden dragon represents creativity, it represents prosperity, it represents opportunity,” Hu said.

He said he will focus on being as creative as possible so Montrealers can enjoy every aspect of the festivities.

“There are many installations around Chinatown, in collaboration with the Murale Festival, that shine the community's art for the community,” Hu said.

The opening ceremony included speeches from Montreal's Chinese community and politicians from all walks of life who say Montreal's Chinatown is unique.

“It's the only Francophone Chinatown in North America, which makes it very special,” said Liberal MNA Jennifer Macaronne.

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“Now that it has been identified as a historic site, it is important that we celebrate the culture and heritage that the community brings to Montreal and Quebec.”

Lunar New Year celebrations also promote the neighborhood and help small businesses.

“There are many businesses and restaurants that have special menus for the Lunar New Year,” Hu said. “It's a great experience to invite everyone to explore here.”

The festival runs through the weekend, but individual events and celebrations continue for several weeks.

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