A traditional Chinese New Year experience

Since arriving in China over three years ago, back in 2019; I was so excited to see the traditional celebrations during Chinese New year, try the local cuisine and understand the meaning of Chinese zodiacs. I arrived in China to see bustling streets holding Street food, music, large groups dancing, games of Mahjong on the street, to name a few. Unfortunately, less than 5 months later, just as the Chinese New year was beginning, the havoc of COVID-19 erupted. All events were cancelled, even with decorations just having been put up in the city's temples. Everyone put on masks, and stayed away from others. The whole city became quiet and eerie overnight as shops closed. No celebrating Chinese New year in 2019.. I waited each year, hoping for the Chinese New year to wake up the city again, but each year it stayed the same. Until 2023, where we leave the unpredictability of the tiger and welcome the balanced and calm new beginnings during the #yearofrabbit! At the first opportunity I traveled to Beijing's Gubei water town, an ancient style village. On arrival I was welcomed by a traditional lion and dragon dance at the entrance of the town. Throughout the day, traditional orchestra, puppet shows, dances, drums, and more dragon dances took place. Everyone smiling and grateful to be a part of this day. In the middle of the town there were a variety of stalls selling dumplings, noodles, Chinese New year memorabilia, DIY glasswork, kite making and more. It was a day to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in China.