by Nicole Bradford
Pearland residents will have several chances to celebrate the transition from the Year of the Dog to the Year of the Snake with several Lunar New Year celebrations.
Celebrated in Asian countries and communities around the world, the Lunar New Year is typically a family affair involving well wishes and showing respect to elders.
On Saturday, February 1, a Lunar New Year celebration at the West Branch Library will include calligraphy, a photo booth, face painting, games, and a dragon dance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 11801 Shadow Creek Parkway. All public library events are free: call 713-436-0995 for information.
On Saturday, February 8, Pearland Town Center will hold a celebration and vendor fair beginning at 11 a.m. For information, call 281-997-5970.
The Pearland Chinese Association will hold the Pearland Lunar New Year Festival on Sunday, February 16, at the Pearland Recreation Center, 4141 Bailey Road, with live entertainment and hands-on activities for families, food, and vendors. The celebration, set from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., is free and open to the public, with participation from local youth organizations, arts and cultural programs, nonprofits, and small businesses.