Charismatic. Intelligent. Confident. Naturally lucky. In Chinese astrology, that’s what they say those born in the Year of the Dragon are. Each year in the astrological calendar is associated with a sign and an element. The combination for 2024 is the dragon and wood — a pairing that’s said to bring growth, progress, and abundance.
DC celebrates the Lunar New Year with its annual parade at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 11.
“If you were born in the years 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, or 2024, you were born under the zodiac sign of the Dragon,” says Penny Lee, spokeswoman for the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Washington, which organizes the parade, in partnership with DC’s government.
Lee adds that those born in the Year of the Dragon tend to do everything “with high standards,” and they are said to be destined for good fortune.
Thousands typically turn out for the seven-block parade in Chinatown that features costumed characters, dragon puppets, martial arts performers, and high school marching bands sashaying down the route.
“Come early to get a bite to eat at one of our many local restaurants before the parade and then grab a curbside spot to watch the colorful pageantry of the marchers,” Lee says.
The parade will feature traditional Chinese performances and a spectacular firecracker finale in the middle of H Street between 3:45 and 4 p.m.
The colorful display typically runs 50 minutes, with more than 100 volunteers from the organizer and the Chinese Youth Club.
If you plan to go, bundle up for the weather, take Metro, and arrive early.
Plan Ahead
WHAT: DC Chinese Lunar New Year Parade
WHEN: Sunday, February 11, 2 p.m.
WHERE: Chinatown in DC
PARADE ROUTE: Starts at Sixth and I streets NW to Eighth Street NW to G Street NW to Seventh Street NW to H Street NW, ending at Sixth Street NW
CLOSEST METRO STOP: Gallery Place-Chinatown
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: The event is held rain or shine. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Feature image by Brandon On
This story originally ran in our February issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
