Aloha Everyone,
Happy Chinese New Year! The fireworks announcing the Year of Dragon was fierce. They started as soon as the sky darkened and continued until a couple of hours before sunrise. These celebratory fireworks were larger and lasted longer than New Year’s.According to legend, Chinese dragons are believed to have control over water, rain and even hurricanes and floods.
The Chinese believe that performing the dragon dance during festivals and celebrations drives away evil spirits. In turn, the ritual brings good luck and blessings.
Seda hotel guests received invitations to attend the Chinese Dragon Dance. Watching the Chinese dragon dance troop up close, I realize that performers, including musicians, require energy and strength. In order to achieve dragons' great vitality and endurance individual performers are literally always on their toes!
Cabbage leaf and money envelopes were taped around the lobby walls which at the end dragons were invited to remove. It appears that cabbage leaf was to irritate the dragon who ripped it apart and stomped on it. In contrast, they removed the money envelope and stuffed it in their pockets.
The finale was the hotel staff through tiny chocolate wafers wrapped in gold thin foil. Children and adults scrambled to pick them up from the floor. The scene reminded us of Thanksgiving Day parade in Kaneohe where Santa and his helpers threw wrapped candies to spectators.
Two chocolates dropped where I was standing taking photos. I brought them for our room attendants to spread luck.
Aloha -- Cathi
