Chinese New Year in Queens, New York 2008: Year of the Rat

On February 9, 2008 people all over Queens, NY will be celebrating the Chinese New Year of the Rat. The most prolific celebration occurs in Flushing, Queens from 11am-1pm because Flushing, Queens is the town in the entire State of New York that has the highest Asian population. In fact in Flushing, Queens there is an area called "Chinatown" in which all the stores, restaurants and street signs are written in Chinese.

During this two hour period on the day of the Chinese New Year, there is a wonderful parade for everyone to enjoy. In the parade, over 4,000 people will march as part of the parade in different costumes and dresses. The parade will feature the Chinese New Year's featured animal which for the 2008 year is the Rat. There are also Chinese drums that are played in the march and fireworks go off in the sky during the parade.

The Chinese New Year parade begins on Union Street and 37th Avenue. The parade ends on Main street and 37th Avenue. If you want to get a good view of the parade, make sure you get there half hour to an hour before the parade starts at 11am.

In Flushing, Queens the festivities don't just end with the ending of the parade. At the town hall building there will be an art exhibit on display and Asian dancers will be performing. The dance styles include traditional dance for not just the Chinese culture, but also Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The dance performances are free for everyone to enjoy and it makes for a great day for the entire family to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

At the Flushing Library during the day, there will be a special Asian-American exhibit features Chinese books on display. There will also be a crafts station for children. The Flushing library is located on Main Street and Kissena Boulevard. Other libraries in Flushing and other parts of Queens will feature Chinese movies celebrating the Chinese heritage on display for people to watch.

As far as food goes, in the heart of Flushing, the China town restaurants will be having special lunch specials and the restaurants will definitely be packed to culminate the Chinese New Year. I have eaten at several restaurants in China Town and the food is not only great, but it is really cheap too.

If you are looking for a great way to celebrate the Chinese New Year, you should definitely come to China Town in Flushing, Queens to have a unique experience.