On Saturday, January 21, 2012 from 10:00am to 5:00pm, the Port Discovery Children’s Museum will host their annual Chinese New Year Celebration (free with regular admission). Baltimore families will experience the culture and traditions of this Chinese holiday while enjoying fun entertainment and activities.
Entertainment and Activities
One of the featured performers is master storyteller Linda Fang. Raised in Shanghai, China she learned the art of storytelling to overcome shyness. Today Linda continues retelling stories from ancient China that she has collected. More information about this talented storyteller can be found at her website.
In addition to Linda Fang, there will be many other family activities. Listed below is the schedule for the day.
10:30am – 2:00pm Make your own Chinese Zodiac
10:30am – 4:00pm Governor's Commission on Asian Pacific Affairs
10:30am – 4:00pm Baltimore Xiamen Sister City Calligraphy and Chopstick Training
11:00am – 1:00pm PF Changs Chinese Food Tasting
11:00am Gina Ling Dance Chamber
1:00pm - 1:30pm Tai Yim Chinese Lion Dance
2:00pm-2:45pm Chinese folktales with Linda Fang
Chinese New Year - The Year of the Dragon
The Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year will begin on Monday, January 23, 2012. According to The Holiday Spot, this significant event on the Chinese calendar lasts 15 days ending with the Lantern Festival. The Chinese New Year is an important time for families of Chinese descent. On the Chinese Zodiac, this is the Year of the Dragon.
The Lantern Festival
According to Chinese folklore, a young woman living in the Emperor’s Palace was missing her family. With the help of Emperor’s favorite advisor, she convinced the Emperor his city would be set on fire by Zhu Rong, the Fire God.
The Emperor asked his advisor what to do. His suggestion was for everyone to light lanterns and set firecrackers across the city. This would cause Zhu Rong to think the city was on fire. During this event, she was able to sneak home.
Other legends on the origins and general information about the Chinese New Year festival can be found here. So check out the Chinese New Year Celebration at the Port Discovery Children’s Museum on Saturday, January 21, 2012 from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Have a great day!
35 Market Place
Baltimore, MD 21202
(410)727-8120
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