Fire Dragon Festival 2024 in Vancouver

Fire Dragon Festival 2024

Date:
Saturday, September 14, 2024

Location:
Chinatown Plaza Mall (180 Keefer Street, Vancouver) & 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver

Event Overview:
The Fire Dragon Festival returns to Vancouver's Chinatown on September 14, 2024, bringing together the community in a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage, art, and tradition. Rooted in the ancient Fire Dragon Dance legend from Tai Hang, Hong Kong, this annual event promises an immersive experience with dragon dancing workshops, live performances, and cultural activities. It’s a day to explore the culinary delights and appreciate the cultural legacy of Chinatown.

Legend of the Fire Dragon:
The Fire Dragon Dance tradition began over 100 years ago in Tai Hang, Hong Kong, when villagers, guided by a dream from Buddha, performed the dance to rid their community of a devastating plague. This sacred tradition continues to be a key feature of Mid-Autumn celebrations, particularly among the Hakka ethnic group.

Event Schedule:

• Lead-Up Activities:
  Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  Venue: Chinatown Plaza Mall (180 Keefer Street, Vancouver)
  Enjoy an array of workshops and performances for all ages, including:
  • Puppet storytelling by Allison
  • Pottery with Ariel
  • T-shirt upcycling with Christa
  • Baking with Francine
  • Watercolour painting with Gal
  • Leather earrings painting with Jamie
  • Zine-making with Jessamine
  • Post-it portraits by Regina
  • Art therapy with Shannon
  • Qilin unicorn dance by Kirin Rising
  • Serigraph prints by Taj
  • Sound garden by Burnaby North Secondary Chinese Orchestra
• Main Ceremony and Parade:
  Time: 7:00 PM
  Venue: 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver
  The evening parade will feature the glowing Fire Dragon, snaking through Chinatown’s streets, led by Chau Luen Athletics. Highlights include:
  • Traditional Indigenous welcome by Coastal Wolf Pack
  • Eye dotting ceremony of the Fire Dragon
  • The majestic Fire Dragon parade accompanied by drums and performers.

Come join the community for this vibrant celebration of cultural heritage!

For more events in Vancouver, visit www.vancouver.page.