2012 - Enter the Dragon
04 February 2012
Chinese New Year Celebration on Saturday 4th February 2012 - YEAR OF THE DRAGON
Carrickfergus Borough Council is once again hosting a Chinese New Year Celebration on Saturday, 4th February 2012 to welcome in the Year of the Dragon. The celebrations begin at 11.00am, concluding at 3.00pm in the Jubilee Hall and Civic Centre. FREE of CHARGE
What is Chinese New Year?
The celebration of Chinese New Year is one of the most important festivals within the Chinese community. It represents the first day of the month of the Chinese Lunar calendar. New Year is seen as a time to start things afresh and settle old debts or feuds. During this period of festivity specific emphasis is placed on getting rid of any evils and misfortunes, which may have accumulated in the old days.
The Chinese New Year is symbolized by a new animal zodiac, determined by a 12-year cycle. Last year was the Year of the Rabbit. But 2012 welcomes a more commanding beast -- the Dragon.
The Year of the Dragon is one of the most revered years of the Chinese New Year calendar, and those born under the sign are regarded as innovative, passionate people who are colourful, confident and fearless.
Who is the Dragon?
The Dragon is anything but a formidable foe in Chinese culture. Unlike the demon that gets slain in Western literature, the Dragon is a symbol of good fortune and intense power in Eastern culture. In Chinese tradition, the Dragon is regarded as a divine beast.
According to Sung dynasty manuscripts, the Dragon is described as having the "head of an ox or donkey, eyes of a shrimp, horns of a deer, body of a serpent covered with fish scales, and a feet of a phoenix," and it usually clutches a pearl, meant to symbolize its supernatural powers.
The Year of the Dragon is associated with the changes of Spring and thus is more like a flowing river, not a stagnant lake, so things happen quickly earlier in the year. The Dragon marks progression, perseverance and auspiciousness. It may also bring about unpredictable events.
What’s happening in Carrickfergus?
This family celebration event is being delivered by Beyond Skin, an organisation that works towards building and developing cultural relations in Northern Ireland. They are collaborating with the Chinese Welfare Association to ensure that this event is a wonderful, colourful celebration of Chinese culture and history with a wide range of different activities and performances, including a Chinese Contortionist and a Face Changer, never before seen in Carrickfergus.
As a prelude to the event, the Harbour Point Bar is offering a children’s art workshop. This is due to commence at 10.00am. For more information on this event please contact the Harbour Bar on 028 9336 8575.
Fiona Surgenor, Good Relations Officer commented “Through events like these, we aim to help promote respect and understanding and give the people of Carrickfergus the opportunity to experience the wealth of culture that exists within our Borough. We have a strong working relationship with the organisations involved in making this event a reality, namely the Chinese Welfare Association and Beyond Skin. The day will have something for everybody. ”
The Chinese New Year Event is free of charge and open to all members of the public.
Please support your Council, to help us build a more tolerant and multicultural society.
We hope you, your family and friends can come along to the Jubilee Hall and celebrate with us. Come early so you don’t miss out on the fun!
Kung Hei Fat Choy!
Happy New Year!
For further information please contact:
Fiona Surgenor
Telephone: 028 9335 8000
E-Mail: fiona.surgenor@carrickfergus.org
Web: www.carrickfergus.org
