The Chinese Lion Dance and Dragon Ribbon dancing. Wei, a “dragon dreamer” and dancer who collaborates with traditional craftsmen in Jiangxi, China performed.
Photo by Kimberly Robinson
The Seattle Chinese Garden, located at 6000 16th SW, was the site of a vibrant celebration for the Lantern Festival, or 元宵节, on March 7th. The event marked the first full moon after the Lunar New Year and served as the conclusion to the traditional 15-day holiday festivities.
Ribbon dancing during the Lantern Festival. Photo by Kimberly Robinson
The celebration featured a wide range of activities, including live performances such as a lion dance and dragon ribbon dancing. Wei, a “dragon dreamer” and dancer who collaborates with traditional craftsmen in Jiangxi, China, provided insight into the dragon performances. Wei described the dragon ribbon dancing as a “variation of traditional Chinese dragon” where “individual dancers have to find ways to dance with a dragon standing together as a team” using a dragon head attached to a beautiful ribbon.
The lanterns featured idioms primarily for children. Photo by Kimberly Robinson
In addition to the dances, the festival offered tea and tong yen tastings, as well as interactive cultural crafts like Chinese calligraphy and knot-tying. Attendees also enjoyed a lineup of live performances from local groups, including @shelbynatashamusic, @uwwushu, a Gu Jang performance, and a display by Husky Woo. District 1 Council member Rob Saka was also in attendance to speak to the community.
While the weather for the event ultimately “worked out really nice,” organizers prepared for potential inclement weather by ensuring the garden was partially covered in the event of rain.
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