Iโm so glad I was in the city for this special weekend. It has been full of exciting events like dragon shows, parades and everything decorated extensively. Most of the activity took place in China Town, a very interesting part of the city. Happy Chinese New Year 2024 from Chiang Mai Thailand!
China Town
I had already scouted this area out a week prior as I was visiting a few markets out this way. When I heard that there would be festivities all weekend long for the New Years celebration, I made a point of returning.
On the Saturday morning, the streets in the core had been blocked off to vehicular traffic. Food stalls were set up on either side of most streets, selling delicious treats. In the centre of the roads, were photo op booths and props for taking multiple pictures commemorating this festive time of year.
Parade
Of course, the main reason that I went down in the morning, was the parade! It began at Tha Phae Gate in the old city of Chiang Mai, and made its way down a single street until it reached China Town. At the front, was the huge gold and red dragon, dancing through the streets, shooting fireworks from its mouth and dancing lively all around.
Next were two big dancing lions and a joker man in the middle. These figures were highly entertaining and energetic jumping all around and shaking their big heads.
Then came a small band playing very loudly on the drums to which all the main characters were dancing. Behind these were various groups from schools and associations. The little ones in their traditional costumes were beautiful and most were happy to be there. ๐
When the parade was at its end point, speeches began on the main stage. I did not stick around for these as they were in Chinese and Thai. Instead, I headed into Warorot Market for a rich strong Thai coffee and a piece of gooey and creamy pandan custard toast. Yum!!
Parade Etiquette
I will state again, now that I have been to two parades in Chiang Mai in the space of a few weeks, the etiquette at these parades is nothing like it is back home in Canada or anywhere else I have seen parades in fact. ๐ People were crowding right into the dancers, vying to get a photo with their favourite character. Firecrackers were lit so close to me, I felt their shrapnel hitting my face at one point! It was so entertaining to see this lively involvement from the crowd. A completely new experience for me.
Happy Chinese New Year 2024. May the dragon bring you luck, strength and vitality!
