The Lunar New Year is a significant holiday celebrated by many cultures around the world, particularly in East and Southeast Asia. It marks the beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar and is a time for families to come together, reflect on the past year, and look forward to the future. It’s a time of joy, celebration, and new beginnings.
If you’re in Chicago and looking for ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the best celebrations in town that are worth checking out:
The Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration
This celebration takes place on Saturday, January 28th, 2023, and features a parade, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities. The parade starts at 1:00 p.m. sharp at Argyle & Winthrop and features over 20 local community groups, cultural institutions, dancers, and performers. The Argyle Street neighborhood is a vibrant and diverse area of Chicago, and this celebration is a great way to experience the neighborhood’s unique culture. For more information on the Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration, go to Explore Uptown!
The Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
The parade takes place on Sunday, January 29th, 2023, and features a traditional dragon and lion dancing teams, colorful floats, marching bands, and marching groups. The parade starts at 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue and travels north on Wentworth towards the viewing stand at Cermak and Wentworth. The parade is a great way to experience the energy and culture of Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood.
In addition to these two must-see celebrations, there are plenty of other events around Chicago to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Be sure to check out the websites of the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce and Choose Chicago for a complete list of events happening in the city.
To make the most of these celebrations, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the parade routes can be quite long. It’s also a good idea to take public transportation or ride-sharing services to the events, as parking in Chinatown and the Argyle neighborhood can be limited. And remember to bring your camera, as the parades and celebrations are filled with vibrant colors and plenty of photo opportunities.
In conclusion, the Lunar New Year is a time of joy, celebration, and new beginnings. Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or a family, these celebrations are a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Chicago. Take advantage of the fun, mark your calendars, and join the parade; you won’t regret it! Let’s welcome the Year of the Rabbit with open arms and hearts! Happy Lunar New Year!
