By: Tori Schubert

People Editor 

On Saturday, Mar. 7, San Francisco hosted its annual Chinese New Year parade, celebrating the Year of the Horse. Taking place from Feb. 17 to Mar. 3, the community honors the 15-day holiday in San Francisco in a number of ways, engaging in various activities and celebrations. 

In the Lunar calendar, they operate with a rotating system of 12 animals. The Year of the Horse is known for companionship, creativity, and ambition, encouraging people to embrace those around them and make the most of their time. Since 1958, San Francisco has hosted an annual parade, now gathering over 200,000 people, with more than 100 participating organizations, and drawing approximately three million online viewers. The event hosted a variety of performances, including 17 floats, marching bands, and a drone show. Organized by the San Francisco Chinese Chamber of Commerce (CCC), the parade sees yearly success. It was recently named “one of the top ten Parades in the world by the International Festivals & Events Association and USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice award, the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco is one of the few remaining night illuminated Parades in North America and the biggest parade celebrating the lunar new year outside of Asia,” according to chineseparade.com.

Although the most populated event, the Parade was not the only activity held for Lunar New Year. San Francisco began its festivities with an opening day ceremony and Choy Sun Doe Day on Tuesday, Feb. 17, honoring the god of wealth. The CCC organized thousands of Lai Sees, or red envelopes with chocolate coins inside, distributed to children for good luck. Others contained money and gift certificates for toys. Additionally, San Francisco held a zodiac parade on the opening day, featuring the Horse. The city also displayed two horse statues from Jan. 31 to mid-March. 

Beyond celebrations, on Mar. 1, the San Francisco YMCA CCHP held its 48th annual Lunar New Year Run. Participants have the opportunity to complete either a 5k or 10k through the streets of Chinatown. The organization also provides a virtual option, allowing runners  to complete their race and submit their results online. In addition to supporting the Chinatown YMCA programs and expanding accessibility, proceeds from the event were donated toward social services for low-income families and individuals. 

Overall, the Lunar New Year celebrations were effective in not only honoring the new year but also bringing the San Francisco community together. CCC member Tony Lau stated, “Rain or shine, we’re going to be there, we’re going to enjoy, we’re going to celebrate Chinese New Year together.” For people across the globe, the Lunar New Year is a time to commemorate new beginnings, honor their ancestors, and welcome prosperity into their lives. 

(Sources: chineseparade.com, KQED, NBC, YMCA)