If you grew up in the states, you may be surprised to find some important elements of American culture came from China. For example, most everyone has enjoyed fireworks although few Americans have heard the ancient story of how fireworks were used to drive away the "New Year Monster" that once terrorized a village in China, according to Chinese legend.

You may hear some interesting stories if you join the educational tour at the Chinese New Year festival on Saturday, Feb. 4, an annual event organized by the Asian Community Service Center and held at Luther Jackson Middle School. You can learn what is common or unique among Asian cultures. If you are not Asian, you may be surprised to discover your own China connection.

According to Mindy Ge, president of the Asian Community Service Center, this is the first year educational tours were added to the program. Along with watching dance, vocal and martial arts performance from China, Korea, Vietnam, India, and Thailand, participants will have opportunities to learn about traditional Chinese culture, music, dance, the arts, dress, and the inner meaning of ancient tales.

Ge noted that the Lunar New Year is always a big celebration in China and that 2012, the Year of the Dragon, is very important for Chinese who see themselves as descendants of the Dragon. "Many married couples would like to have a baby during the year of the dragon," said Ge. "We invite children to join in the dragon parade and follow the big dragon throughout the school. This year we ordered little dragons from China for children wanting to try it."

Children wearing Asian dress parade around the school grounds. If they are lucky they may get to carry the nine-person dragon. Two-person dragons brought from China will be made available for purchase.

Children love the lion and dragon dances. There are also a number of activities geared toward children, including Chinese style games, learning to write their name in Chinese, arts and crafts. Ge described a game a where children hold a paddle in their left hand and hit a ping pong ball. "Using the left hand is good for the brain," smiled Ge.

The spectacular display of Asian culture makes the festival popular among a diverse group of people throughout the Washington, DC area extending as far as Baltimore. Local elected officials and Congressman Connolly also frequent the event. 

Free Chinese cooking demonstrations are also popular at the festival. Like past years, delicious Asian food will be provided by local restaurants and affordably priced. This has made it convenient for fans of Asian culture to spend the whole day. If you have any interest in Asian culture, it is worth setting aside a few hours to enjoy the celebration. Apart from free admission, the event is fun!

Happy Year of the Dragon!

Cost: FREE Admission

When:  Saturday Feb 4, 2012, 9:30am - 5:15pm

Where:  Luther Jackson Middle School
3020 Gallows Road
Falls Church, VA 22042

Schedules:

Performances- All Day

Dragon Parade-2:00 p.m.

Educational Tours-  10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m, 3 p.m., 4 p.m. (start from information desk)

Sponsors:  Asian Fortune, BB&T, Chase Bank, Amerigroup, Wells Fargo, New Tang Dynasty T.V., Asian American Chamber of Commerce, The Epoch Times

For more information visit www.chinesenewyearfestival.org or call (703) 868-1509.