Street performances, fireworks mark Chinese New Year
MANILA, Philippines—The crowd celebrating Chinese New Year continued to swell Thursday in Manila’s Chinatown district.
A festive celebration greeted revelers amid drizzles brought by the gloomy weather. But the crowd continued to thicken along the narrow alleys of Binondo while people snaked to a sea of stalls selling lucky charms and accessories.
Business was also brisk as people trooped to popular stores selling famous delicacies “tikoy and hopia”
Restaurants were also packed with people getting a taste of authentic Chinese cuisines.
Dragons and lions and performers in red costumes danced to the beat of loud drums as they flocked to business establishments, a custom which is believed to drive evil spirits and bad luck away. They were then rewarded with money placed in envelopes or “ang pao.”
Fortunetellers were also on hand for those who want to know if their lucky stars will smile on them this year, the Year of the Wooden Sheep.
Live cultural performance, concerts and a fireworks display will also entertain revelers throughout the day until the night.
Thousands of people were able to experience the Chinese tradition since President Benigno Aquino III has made Chinese New Year as a non-working Holiday.
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