Like most major cities, Philadelphia is always bustling with different events and activities. The great thing about Philadelphia is that there are activities and events for everyone, regardless of where your interests lie. Like music? You can always catch a concert or performance. Like art? There are plenty of venues with artistic events. Into movies? The Academy of Natural Sciences has Mega Bad Movie Night and throughout the summer there are other movie festivals around the city. Whatever you’re into, Philadelphia is bound to have an activity related to any interest. Although there is a lot to do in Philadelphia, I’ve narrowed the list to activities that I’ve found to be really fun over the years.
5Chinese New Year Celebrations in China Town
The Chinese New Year Celebrations are held each February in Philadelphia’s China Town. I had the joy of going on Valentine’s Day to witness the Chinese New Year parade and celebrations. Despite the temperature being nine degrees, I still enjoyed myself. Before the parade began, I hung out in a tea shop called Tea Do. As I was sipping my tea, I watched the owners hang cabbage from the windows. I asked what were the customs regarding hanging cabbage and she just explained the cabbage was to feed the lions that would be marching around.
When the parade began, I forgot about how cold it was outside with all the commotions. There were loud firecracker blasts—the firecrackers ward off evil spirits—loud drum beats and music that the lions danced to. Between the firecrackers, the cabbage that the lions were fed, orange peels, and some fake money, the streets were littered. The lions weren’t real lions; they were members of the Philadelphia Suns dressed up to dance this traditional Chinese dance. They are a dance company that performs traditional Chinese dances.
The parade lasted about two hours. The parade is free to attend and is very memorable. There was a little devil dancing around with the lions that stole my Baymax plush a few times to pose for pictures. This little devil often played tricks on spectators in the crowds. Everyone laughed and posed for selfies with this character. Everyone was filled with excitement and happiness—it brought everyone together in peace and laughter. I would definitely recommend checking out a Chinese New Year parade if you ever find yourself in Philadelphia in February.
Are there going to be any articles for other places you’ve visited? You have so many adventures!
Yes! I will be working on other places as well! I’m thinking Green Bay, New York City, Detroit, and when I get back from Toronto, Toronto as well.