TK | Calgary Sun

Content of the article

Hundreds of Calgarians, including politicians from all levels of government, gathered at the Chinese Cultural Center to mark the start of the Year of the Dragon.

Content of the article

“The Lunar New Year has been celebrated in Alberta for decades, reflecting the long and proud history of the Chinese Canadian community in our province,” Premier Daniel Smith said in a speech outside the center that was followed by politicians including Mayor Jyoti. Gondek, Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney and Calgary Center MP Greg McLean.

Content of the article

Speakers reflected on the meaning of the Year of the Dragon, a period known for success and power that follows the tumultuous period of the pandemic. The dragon appears every 12 years, and the speakers wish the participants happiness and prosperity.

In keeping with the theme, Mayor Gondek highlighted the resilience of the Chinese community, who have been able to build a strong community despite several challenges in the past years.

Content of the article

“Chinatown as we know it today has been here since 1910 after the community moved twice,” Gondek said.

“But the community didn't lose faith, they didn't lose hope and what they could achieve together, and despite the challenges over time, Chinatown continues to be home to many wonderful people who run family businesses.”

The event was also joined by Andrew Mosker, president and CEO of the National Music Centre, who announced a new two-day festival in Calgary on September 21 that will showcase the fusion of traditional Chinese music and mainstream Canadian culture.

The speeches were followed by the dragon dance, an ancient tradition that brings good luck. Dancers dressed in yellow twirled a dragon made of cloth, bamboo and grass, symbolizing wealth and power.

Inside the center, people walked through a crowded hall with several vendors selling food, candy, jewelry, Chinese art, and stuffed toys. Insiders told Postmedia that the New Year is one of the most important events in society because it brings families together.

Share this article on social media