Lunar New Year happenings around town

Flushing is one of the largest Asian communities in the country and various Chinese, Taiwanese and Korean groups, along with the downtown Flushing Business Improvement District will be celebrating “Chinese New Year” together on Saturday, January 31.
The day begins with a traditional fireworks display at 10:30 a.m., at Queens Crossing, Main Street and 39th Avenue.
At 11 a.m., the 14th annual Lunar New Year’s Day parade will step off down Union Street from 39th Avenue. Marchers proceed south to Sanford Avenue, turn west to Main Street, then head north to 39th Avenue, where they again head west, ending near the Flushing Mall, two blocks west of Main Street.
There are special dance and music exhibitions along the parade route, notably in the area of the Flushing Library, at 41-17 Main Street.
After the parade, many regional and cultural groups adjourn to their own centers to continue the celebration, but there’s still plenty to enjoy.
Starting at 1 p.m., the Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel at 135-20 39th Avenue sponsors an indoor New Year’s celebration.
The Korean parade contingent celebrates at Korea Village’s Open Center, a cultural space at 150-24 Northern Boulevard in Flushing.
There will be Korean food, games, dancing, martial arts, music and a Karaoke contest. Call 718-353-8969 for more information.
At 3 p.m., there’s a performance of folkloric music by Susie Ibarra with the Korean Traditional Music and Dance Institute at Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Boulevard.
Following the performance, the audience is invited to join in tasting and learning about Kimchi, Korea’s centuries old traditional dish.
Tickets are $12 for adults ($10 for members), $8 for children, and free for children under 12-years.
The traditional celebration lasts for 15 days. Not to be outdone, Flushing Town Hall presents a “Lunar New Year Dance Sampler” performance on Saturday, February 7 at 2 p.m.
On Saturday, February 14 enjoy tea and music at their “Lunar New Year Demo: Tea for Two,” also at 2 p.m.
They also have an exhibit of Chinese puppetry in the main gallery and puppetry performance, from Saturday, January 24 through Sunday February 22. Call 718-463-7700 or visit www.flushingtownhall.org for more information.