Gong Hay Fat Choy: Chinese New Year celebrated at Kona Inn Shopping Village

KAILUA-KONA — The sound of drums, gongs and firecrackers could be heard in Kailua Village Saturday evening as the Kona Inn Shopping Village celebrated Chinese New Year.

Big Island Shaolin Arts ushered in the year of the Monkey with the traditional Lion Dance. Individuals and businesses offered the lions lai see, red packets filled with money, to ensure good luck and prosperity. A 100-foot dragon also made an appearance winding its way through the shops and ocean lawn.

Maika the fire breather treated the crowd by blowing huge fire balls as the lions danced around the audience and keiki showed off their finest in a costume contest.

The shopping village hopes to make the celebration an annual event.