Chinese New Year

Brightwater Commons hosted its sixth Chinese New Year celebration on 18 January and kicked off The Year of the Horse in style.

There was a great deal to keep people entertained and array of Asian food and goods stores were open.

The Chinese ambassador to South Africa, Tian Xuejun, officially opened the event and included in the opening ceremony was dragon and lion dancing.

“The Year of the Horse has been celebrated for over 4 000 years. It is a symbol of renewing and hope,” said Xuejun. “The Spring Festival [Chinese New Year] is a joyful festival. It is also a window to learn Chinese customs and culture. I wish every success for Chinese and South African

relations.”

There was a cultural variety show featuring the Triple Fusion Dancers, Star Acrobats, Thepiso Bapela (drums), with Glen Nhanhla (tap dancing), Fred the Magician, and kung fu and kendo martial artists.

The closing act was performed by the China Shenzhen Futian District Art Troupe and included singing, dancing and martial arts.

People could also hit a lucky bong to attain luck for the year. However they had to do it blindfolded after being spun three times and left to walk a few metres to the target.

“We come every year,” said Blairgowrie residents Renate and Mike Koch. “The [opening] ceremony was very nice. We have German visitors with us and they enjoyed it. Only there was not enough seating.”

Morningside resident Jarod Li enjoyed the event. “I think it was pretty cool. I was in Cape Town and just came to Joburg. The Chinese society in Cape Town can’t host such a big event,” he said. “I was quite amazed. The community got involved and showed interest.”

“We enjoyed the food. Last year it was better, now there are fewer stores,” said Bromhof residents Quintus Berrington and Alisia Ohlsen. “We still had a good day out though, seeing different cultures.”

Kasmira Naidoo and Tashlyn Ogle from Douglasdale said the event was “awesome, entertaining, swag, dope and sick”.

This year, the date of the Chinese New Year is 31 January.