The Chinese communities around the world prepare to welcome the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival this February 16, which is according to the Chinese calendar the Year of the Earth Dog.

In Costa Rica the Chinese community has their own celebrations, one of them which is open to the general public will take place on Saturday, February 17 in San Jose’s Barrio Chino (China Town) from 10 a.m. and through 4 p.m. This is a Chinese gastronomy festival where assistants will also be able to see the famous Chinese New Year dragon dance , the lion dance for good luck and prosperity as well as live traditional music and martial arts demonstrations, among other activities that also include Costa Rican gastronomy with the idea of celebration the culture exchange.

“The celebration of the Chinese New Year is one of the most important for the Chinese people. This celebration in China lasts for as much as 15 days; here in Costa Rica we have promoted the idea of having one day where the Barrio Chino fills with people that want to share and celebrate our joy”, explained Franklin Wang, from Cathay Bank, spokesperson for the activity.
The red color in the celebration of every New Year symbolizes fire, one of the five elements. Fire is supposed to push away bad luck and attract positive vibes and good luck.

There will be other activities held in the country, some restaurants for example will have a special menu for this day; P.F. Chang’s for example is one of them, “This menu hopes to bring our clients closer to the Chinese New Year traditions that have been passed from generation to generation to attract good luck”, said Jose Antonio Dominguez, regional director for P.F. Chang’s Central America; this restaurant will also be giving away fortune cookies for all clients as of Friday, February 16 at 6 p.m. and through Sunday, February 18.

Hotel Isla Verde and Restaurant in Pavas, is hosting the art exhibit “Roots” by Chinese-Costa Rican artist Alejandra Ching, the art pieces can be seen at the hotel’s lounge from February 16 to February 28.

The Chinese community in Costa Rica is also celebrating 162 years of presence in this country, where they share traditions and cultures.