For the Chinese, the lion symbolizes power and wisdom. It’s a figure present during important festivals and occasions as a symbol of good fortune, and dances mimicking the animal are meant to chase bad energy away.
The Chinese New Year, in particular, highlights the significance of this tradition. Accompanied by drums, cymbals, and gongs, lion dances, which are more common than its reptilian counterparts, are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity for the year to come on top of creating a festive atmosphere and acrobatic exhibition for eager eyes.
We’ve listed a few places where you can catch these performances.
Ongpin St., Binondo
One of the best places to catch lion and dragon dances around the city is Binondo, which is believed to be the oldest Chinatown in the world. Ongpin St. in particular is home to incredible lion and dragon dances as a way to celebrate Chinese New Year—aside from food fairs and cultural activities throughout the day.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkpW_Lun4ud/
F1 Hotel Manila
Where: 32nd St. cor Lane A, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
When: Jan. 25, 12 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/f1hotelmanila/photos/gm.813129035826763/2526054177505939/?type=3&theater
Diamond Hotel
Where: Roxas Blvd. cor. Dr. J. Quintos St., Manila
When: Jan. 25, 11 a.m.
https://www.facebook.com/diamondhotelph/photos/gm.2906725079361444/2967222389995932/?type=1&theater
The Bellevue Manila
Where: North Bridgeway, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City
When: Jan. 25, 11 a.m.
https://www.facebook.com/thebellevuemanila/posts/10158402178439068
City of Dreams
Where: Asean Ave. cor. Roxas Blvd., Entertainment City, Brgy. Tambo, Parañaque City
When: Feb. 2, 3 p.m.
https://www.facebook.com/cityofdreamsmanila/posts/1248771625313944
Shangri-La Plaza
Where: Main Wing, Grand Atrium, EDSA cor. Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City
When: Jan. 25, 10 a.m.
https://www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial/videos/3685726598112118/
TriNoma
Where: EDSA cor., North Ave., Brgy. Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City
When: Jan. 25, 11 a.m.
https://www.facebook.com/TriNoma.AyalaMalls/photos/a.10150660108463138/10157228944018138/?type=3&theater
Header by Brett Andrei Martin on Unsplash
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Read more:
Celebrate Chinese New Year with these traditionally lucky dishes
Skip the Binondo crowds this Lunar New Year and try this little Chinatown in San Juan
Etiquette you need to know before your Chinese New Year feast
Writer: ANGELA PATRICIA SUACILLO
