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Crowsnest Pass
Herald
Vol. 94 No. 6
February 14, 2024 $1.25
Serving our communities since 1930
Nicholas L. M. Allen Photos
Prizes available at Ben Wong’s Restaurant in Blairmore during their Lunar New Year celebrations on February 10 and 11. (Inset) Diners eat at Ben Wong’s on February 10. More photos on Page 16.
Celebrating Lunar New Year NICHOLAS L. M. ALLEN Pass Herald Reporter Lunar New Year, widely celebrated across Canada, brings vibrant festivities that reflect the rich cultural diversity of the nation. Marking the beginning of the lunar calendar, this joyous occasion is particularly significant for the Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other East Asian communities. In Canada's multicultural tapestry, Lunar New Year is embraced as an opportunity for communities to come together, share traditions, and showcase their heritage. Premier Smith issued the following statement in celebration of Lunar New Year: “Thousands of Albertans and more than two billion people across the world are celebrating Lunar New Year. Although traditions may vary from culture to culture,
Lunar New Year is a time to celebrate and to anticipate new opportunities and good fortune in the coming year. “In the Lunar New Year cycle, Feb. 10 marks the end of the Year of the Water Rabbit and the start of the Year of the Dragon, which represents authority, prosperity and good fortune. This year is considered lucky and promises to be full of opportunity and success, characteristics that have long represented Alberta. “To all those celebrating, I wish you joyous Lunar New Year celebrations followed by a peaceful and prosperous year in which you thrive.” In schools and workplaces, Lunar New Year celebrations often include educational activities, presentations, and the exchange of red envelopes known as "hongbao" or "li xi," containing money as a symbol of good luck. The significance of Lunar New Year in Canada extends beyond cultural festivities; it is a time for reflection, renewal, and the strengthening of familial bonds. As Canadians from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion, Lunar New Year serves as a reminder of the country's multicultural spirit and the harmonious coexistence of various communities.