Chinese New Year's celebrations get off to early start in Winnipeg
Year of the Monkey in 2016 could bring 'risk, learning and change,' organizer says
The Chinese community in Winnipeg is celebrating the Year of the Monkey Sundaywith its Chinese new year banquet, with between 400 and 500 people expected to attend.
"It is also unpredictable,where luck and good fortune in personal and business lives can shift very quickly."
Chen said many in the community believe 2016 will be characterized by "risk, learning and change," based on traditional symbolism associated with the Year of the Monkey.
The party Sundaywill kick off with a lion dance, which is "a loud and celebratory way to say 'Welcome,'"Malinda Lee, a spokespersonfor the WCCCC said.
Although it's a week before actual Chinese New Year on Feb.8, the dinner is part of a three-week celebratory lead-up.
The banquet will have about 10courses with staples like long life noodlesand fish, the latter of which symbolizes fortune.
"It'll be a lot of delicious food.You'll never leave Chinese New Year hungry," Lee said, adding Winnipeggers from all walks of life are invited to attend.
"It's a great opportunity for them to share our culture because we love it so much!"
The cultural centre is hosting the dinner in partnershipwith theWinnipeg Chinatown Development Corporation and the Manitoba Chinese Benevolent Association.Tickets are still on sale to the public.