The public is invited to celebrate Chinese Lunar New Year and ring in the Year of the Monkey this evening at Kings’ Shops. ADVERTISING The public is invited to celebrate Chinese Lunar New Year and ring in the Year of
The public is invited to celebrate Chinese Lunar New Year and ring in the Year of the Monkey this evening at Kings’ Shops.
At 5:30 p.m., the Big Island Shaolin Arts Group will perform traditional Chinese lion dance throughout the center. Kings’ Shops retailers and restaurants hang li-see (red envelope) tied to cabbage in their entrance in anticipation of receiving blessings of good fortune from the lions. In Chinese and other Asian societies, a red envelope is a monetary gift given during holidays or special occasions; in this instance a monetary donation is made to the lions in exchange for good fortune in the upcoming year for the business.
The lions parade through the center stopping to perform like playful lions jumping for their food. The lions swallow and chew the cabbage along with the red envelopes, then spew the cabbage back out their mouths while keeping the money. The cabbage is left at the entrance for at least one night to keep away bad luck or spirits.
Those who arrive early, around 5 p.m., to Center Court Stage to receive free li-see envelopes (while supplies last) can place their monetary donation inside to feed the lions and receive blessings for good fortune for the New Year. Children will receive additional goodies. ■
