Happy Chinese New Year!

Happy Chinese New year! January 26th is the first day of 2009, the year of the ox (4707) in the Chinese calendar. (For more about Chinese astrology, visit the
Chinese Astrology Year chart.)
Chinese New Year celebrations were held yesterday at
Nanhua Temple, near Bronkhorstspruit, and included a Dharma function, a traditional dragon and lion dance to chase away bad luck; and many other cultural exhibitions and events.
Lion dance
Experiencing other traditions and cultures is lots of fun; it was great to sample the traditional Chinese food sold by the many stalls around the temple and a highlight was the performance of the Free State Orchestra of Chinese Music, which combined traditional Chinese and western instruments, and played traditional and modern Chinese music as well as adaptations of western music. How wonderful that we are able to participate in celebrations like this without leaving South Africa.
May your 2009 be filled with health, happiness, prosperity and many blessings!
Labels: Chinese New Year, NanHua temple