The Year of the Dragon is upon us!

This year, in the lunar calendar, is thought to be the most auspicious of all in the 12-year cycle.

In the run-up to the new year people will clean their houses to get rid of dirt, trash and other unwanted items. Homes are decorated with red couplets, lanterns, new flowerpots and furniture. And dinner parties are abundant, all offering a banquet of specific foods that need to be eaten meant to bring luck, health and prosperity in throughout the upcoming year.

For us in the Washington region, there is good news! After three successful years, the Winter Lantern Festival is returning to Washington on its latest tour through the United States. This event is a unique luminescent night walk featuring modern LED light lit hand-crafted lantern frames. Many made from small pieces of classically made Chinese silk cloth and steel wire. All lanterns are created by artisans, some of which have over 20 years of experience in their trade and bring magical folklorical creatures to life.