Updated January 12, 2012
One of the traditional Chinese New Year activities is to set off firecrackers at midnight to celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year. While some people still do this in New York City, it's illegal (and unsafe) for individuals to set off fireworks, so there is a formal New Year's Day Firecracker Ceremony & Cultural Festival organized by several Chinatown organizations. In addition to setting off rockets and firecrackers, there are lion dances, drumming and dancing. Many community organizations have booths at the festival, some offering giveaways/contests and some selling traditional Chinese New Year items. After the Firecracker Ceremony, there is a parade through the streets of Chinatown that begins at Sarah D. Roosevelt Park.
Chinese New Year's Day Firecracker Ceremony Pictures
When is the Chinese New Year Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival?
Monday, January 23, 2012
- Firecracker Ceremony at Noon
- Cultural Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Getting to the Chinese New Year Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival
- The festival is held in Sara D. Roosevelt Park. The Park runs from Canal to East Houston between Forsyth and Chrystie Streets.
- Take the 6 train to Canal Street and walk east along Canal Street past the Manhattan Bridge and take a left on Chrystie Street. The events are held between Grand and Hester Streets.
- Street parking in Chinatown is very difficult. I recommend taking public transportation or planning to use a parking garage.
Tips for attending the Chinese New Year Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival
- Arrive by 11:15 a.m. for the best viewing spots
- Dress warmly -- it's easy to get cold standing in the same place while you wait for the firecrackers to begin
- Maybe it goes without saying, but there will be lots of noise and smoke. If you're sensitive to this, you should choose a location that isn't too close to the events.
- Many restaurants in Chinatown are closed on New Year's Day. If you have your heart set on dining somewhere in particular, you should call ahead.
