How to celebrate Lunar New Year in the Coachella Valley
Lunar New Year is on Saturday.
The River in Rancho Mirage is hosting its 2nd annual Lunar New Year's celebration on Saturday. The event features food, live music, art, traditional decorations and lion dancing.
Event organizers say they are expecting over 4,000 people to attend.
2024 is the Year of the Dragon. The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle, and each year has its own animal sign.
The Dragon is a symbol of strength and power and is often associated with wisdom, success, and good fortune.
Those born during Dragon years are seen as ambitious, confident, and are known to be great leaders.
The 15-day festival celebrates the start of a new year on the lunisolar calendar and is the most widely celebrated holiday in Asian culture.
During this holiday, people spend time with their families and friends and partake in traditional celebrations.
This traditionally Asian holiday can be celebrated by all — at home and in the community.
Here are some ideas for your Lunar New Year celebration.
Ways to celebrate at home:
- Cook dumplings and spring rolls for good luck.
- Clean the house before the New Year to rid your home of any bad luck from the last year.
- Give red envelopes with money in them to younger people in your family.
- Place lotus flowers throughout the house for good luck and personal growth.
Things to do in the Coachella Valley:
- Enjoy Lunar New Year at The River during their celebration on Saturday.
- Watch traditional dragon dances at Agua Caliente on Saturday.
- Dine out at Chinese restaurants like Palm Tree Palace or China Wok.
However you spend Lunar New Year, may the Year of the Dragon bring good fortune to you!