The festive atmosphere of the Lunar New Year is palpable in the Philippines as locals and tourists gather in Manila’s Chinatown, Binondo, to welcome the Year of the Wood Dragon. This celebration is not only a cultural feast but also a hope for economic revival.
Ahead of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, Chinese restaurants and shops adorned their premises with festive lights and decorations, anticipating a surge of visitors. Binondo’s streets and lamp posts have been embellished with dragon motifs, symbolizing the incoming year, with some decorations captivate passerby’s attention for a selfie or two.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna played a significant role in the celebrations by lighting a “money tree” and leading the ceremonies that celebrated the 430th founding anniversary of Binondo, one of the oldest Chinatowns worldwide. The festivities included traditional dragon dances and concluded with a vibrant fireworks display.
The coronavirus pandemic had previously transformed this bustling area into a deserted locale, with a myriad of businesses shuttered. This year, however, the district has seen a return to vibrancy, with crowded streets and congested parking indicating a possible return to pre-pandemic activity levels. As the Wood Dragon year is embraced with enthusiasm, there is a widespread hope for prosperity to return to the area.
The excitement surrounding the Lunar New Year not only signifies cultural importance but also carries economic implications as the local community yearns for a rebound in tourism and commerce.
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Associated Press journalist Joeal Calupitan contributed to this report.
FAQs about Celebrating the Lunar New Year in Binondo
When does the Lunar New Year celebration take place in Binondo?
The Lunar New Year celebration typically occurs in late January or early February, with the date varying each year according to the lunar calendar. In 2023, it was celebrated on a Saturday.
What is the significance of the dragon decorations in Binondo?
The dragon is a symbol of strength, power, and good luck in Chinese culture. During the Lunar New Year, dragon decorations signify the welcoming of good fortune for the coming year.
What activities are part of the Lunar New Year celebration in Binondo?
Festivities include traditional dragon and lion dances, food and charm stalls, prayers for good fortune, lighting ceremonials like the “money tree,” and culminate with fireworks.
Is Binondo affected by the coronavirus pandemic?
Yes, during the height of the pandemic, Binondo saw the closure of many businesses and significantly reduced activity. However, the area is showing signs of recovery with bustling crowds returning for the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Conclusion
The Lunar New Year in the Philippines is a vibrant time of celebration, particularly in the historic district of Binondo, in Manila. This year’s festivities not only brought back traditional joy and color to the streets but also sparked a renewed sense of hope for economic recovery following the challenges wrought by the pandemic. The Year of the Wood Dragon has been welcomed with enthusiasm and optimism, with residents and visitors alike partaking in the rich customs and culture that Binondo’s Chinatown has to offer.