New Year’s party is one doggone hit
CITY TURNS OUT FOR BIG YEAR OF DOG CELEBRATION
SPECTACULAR visuals wowed the crowds in Newcastle for Chinese New Year.
Huge celebrations were held yesterday to mark the start of the Year of the Dog.
Organisers had promised it would be bigger than ever thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign.
Led by dancers and drummers, the parade began in Old Eldon Square before making its way up to Stowell Street and Chinatown.
Here, performers showed off the dazzling Dragon Dance, as well as the Lion Dance and the Unicorn Dance, underneath the revamped Chinese Arch.
They were accompanied by floats, colourful flags and banners. Spectators lined the streets to watch the procession and the final display.
The Edmund Ng’s Choi Lee Fut Kung Fu Dragon and Lion team also treated the audience to martial arts demonstrations.
Lord Mayor of Newcastle Linda Wright,, said: “It’s amazing how Chinese culture has found its way into the heart of our city. That’s proved today by the number of people who have come out to watch.
“Our city cherishes the close and historic ties that have been nurtured over many years of co-operation with the Chinese people.”
In Chinese tradition, the zodiac sign of the dog shows traits such as friendship and courage.
The New Year celebrations will continue throughout the week.