Best Ways To Celebrate Lunar New Year In Detroit
The Lunar New Year is a festival of historical importance in China and in many other countries that have large Chinese populations. It is a traditional holiday celebrated annually and marks the beginning of a new year. Every year correlates with a different animal; 2014 is the Year of the Horse. This holiday has been observed over many centuries and continues today. The occasion is celebrated in a variety of ways, such as spending time with relatives and friends, cooking special cuisine, exchanging gifts and watching fireworks. Experience the festive and wondrous Lunar New Year by attending a unique event or activity held in the Detroit area.
The Detroit Institute Of Arts
5200 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48202
(313) 833-7900
www.dia.org
Date: Feb. 8, 2014 at 2:30 p.m.
Witness one of the most compelling traditions in Chinese culture as the Detroit Institute of Arts hosts a traditional dance to celebrate the Year of the Horse. Join the museum as it hosts a Chinese New Year Lion Dance performed by the Asian Martial Arts Studio. The performance takes place in its main hall and is an exhilarating event to behold. Instruments accompany the spectacular performance, which is punctuated with traditional music created with gongs, percussion, cymbals and drums. The music elevates the experience, culminating in a wondrous display of sight and sound. This is an enchanting performance that will never be forgotten.
Related: Best Cultural Museums In Detroit
Shen Yun 2014
Detroit Opera House
1526 Broadway St.
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 237-7464
www.shenyunperformingarts.org
During the Lunar New Year, Shen Yun will perform multiple shows at the Detroit Opera House. This expressive cultural performance highlights the ancient past of Chinese civilization. A theatrical experience, each act features classical dancers dressed in extraordinary costumes. The cast will be surrounded by a live orchestra and computerized backdrops while they recreate dramatic tales through this classic form of artistic entertainment.
Chinese Community Center
32585 Concord Drive
Madison Heights, MI 48071
(248) 585-9343
www.acadetroit.org
Every year, the Detroit chapter of the Association of Chinese Americans hosts a spectacular Lunar New Year celebration. An open house welcomes the public to partake in an extravaganza of education, activities and demonstrations that honor different aspects of Chinese culture. The festivities include crafts, games, music and folk dancing. A lantern festival occurs annually, and is a breathtaking way to submerge yourself in Chinese culture. There is both a luncheon and a dinner event, for which advanced reservations are required. The gourmet dining experience features a multi-course banquet. Please note that certain events take place at the Chinese Community Center, while others occur at the Detroit Service Center. Please call in advance to inquire about the event location.
Related: Best Bilingual Extracurricular Activities For Kids In The Detroit Area
Sur La Table
Somerset Mall
2801 W. Big Beaver Road, Suite 264
Troy, MI 48084
www.surlatable.com
Date: Jan. 31, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Kick off the 2014 Lunar New Year by taking a cooking class that features lessons on recreating Chinese cuisine. Taught by a professional chef, guests will learn techniques to prepare a tasty meal. Attendees will be instructed on how to make a complete meal – from appetizers and sauces, to an entree and dessert. This class is most fun when taken alongside a significant other. The best part is, since the Lunar New Year has just started, you can use the newly acquired skills throughout the year. This would be a great precursor to hosting your own Lunar New Year event to show off your culinary prowess for friends and family. Reservations are required for this event.
Whole Foods Cranbrook
990 W. Eisenhower Parkway
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(734) 997-7500
www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Date: Feb. 16, 2014 at 2:00 p.m.
The Ann Arbor Chinese Center of Michigan will host a special event for the Chinese New Year. Guests are in for a unique experience, as members perform a theatrical lion dance accompanied by traditional Chinese music. Witness the magic created by a Chinese yo-yo and be certain to catch a glimpse of the visually compelling ribbon dance. There are a host of activities to explore Chinese culture, many of which originated in ancient times. Master the art of Chinese calligraphy, or at least make a wholehearted attempt. Learn the intricacies of traditional paper cutting to participate in another facet of this storied heritage.
