---------------------------------photo by Elaine A. Russell

Today is Valentine's Day... and it also marks the first day of the Year of the Tiger. The hubby and I went to see the Chinese New Year Celebrations here in ABQ.... wow! It was pretty spectacular!!!

This year's celebrations were held at the Chinese Culture Center on Adam's street. Festivities to ring in the lunar new year 4708 included Traditional Dragon and Lion Dancing, Kung Fu and Tai Chi Demonstrations, sword dances, fan dances, ribbon and flag dances... and SO much more.

I was awestruck by the fabulous costumes for the lions ... and of course, the massive green dragon!
Demonstrations were graced with appearances by the Monkey King and his entourage, and from some pretty awesome demon dancers.
Oh... and did I mention the drummers?! Incredible.

The presentations (which went from 1-3pm) concluded with a wonderful encore by the mighty dragon dancers with all of the Lions ... and about 12,500 fireworks! No joke.

To see more on this celebration; check HERE. and HERE
I will share more pictures on another post.....