“This month millions of people around the world welcome the start of the Year of the Pig in celebration of Lunar New Year which officially begins on February 5th, 2019, and ends on February 19th.

Being the most important holiday in China and to Chinese people all over, it is celebrated by more than 20% of the world.”

“In the 19th century lots of Chinese immigrants arrived to Hawaii to work on sugar plantations. Since then, the Chinese community has become numerous on the islands, especially in Honolulu. The local Chinatown

has become the epicentre of Chinese New Year celebrations every February. Lots of tourists and locals are attracted by delicious Chinese cuisine and of course fireworks!”

“Unfortunately, the event was canceled last year due to a lack of funding. But with help from grant money and a partnership with the city, the long-standing Chinese New Year event is back this year.

This time it was organized by Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, Chinatown Merchants Association and Honolulu Chinese Jaycees.”

“Even cloudy skies and cool temperatures still couldn’t dampen Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown. Celebration started with a parade down Hotel Street. A festive Choy Cheng ritual got off to a booming

start with firecrackers going off as lions visited area merchants to bring them good fortune, while food, crafts and cultural activities were presented at the Chinatown Cultural Plaza.”