Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
2024 is the year of the dragon—how to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Birmingham
The most important of Chinese holidays, Lunar New Year is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunar calendar. This year, the new year will begin on February 10. Keep reading for more on the traditional holiday and how to celebrate in Birmingham.
2024 is the year of the dragon
The Lunar New Year usually begins sometime between late January and mid-February.
Saturday, February 10 will ring in the year of the dragon, a big year for those born in the years of 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 and now, 2024. According to the Chinese Language Institute those born under the sign of the dragon are said to be self-assured leaders.
“Their charismatic and dominant personalities make them natural CEOs, start-up founders, politicians and military commanders.
Blessed as they are with tenacity and intelligence, dragons are equally renowned for reveling in challenges, taking pleasure in spending countless hours working towards conquering whatever opposes them.”
The Chinese Language Institute
If you were born in a dragon year, check out these tips and tricks to ensure good fortune this year.
Lunar New Year events in Birmingham
Birmingham Chinese New Year Celebration
The Birmingham Chinese New Year Celebration is taking place next Saturday, February 17 and is a can’t-miss event. Enjoy beautiful dragon and lion dances, Chinese dance performances, gourmet Chinese cuisine and family-friendly fun.
- When: February 17 | 10AM-2PM
- Where: Boutwell Municipal Auditorium, 1930 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Cost: $10 per person, age 12 and under is free
- Tickets + more info
Lunar New Year night market
International student organizations at UAB are collaborating to exchange cultures and celebrate the Lunar New Year on Wednesday, February 14. They’ll have different organizations present with traditional games, activities and of course, food.
- When: Thursday, February 15 | 4-6PM
- Where: Mervyn Sterne Library, INTO Center, 917 13th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294
- Cost: Free
- More info
Support Asian culture in Birmingham
To continue celebrating beyond the new year, check out these Asian culture communities you can support right here in Birmingham:
- Asian Art Society
- Hometown Market and Mr. Chen’s
- Japan America Society of Alabama
- UAB Asian American Organization
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