Dragons and red smoke to welcome the Chinese New Year in Zaragoza: “It’s the most special day, we stop working and eat traditional dishes”

Ready to sing to the New Year in Chinese, Spanish, and English, Amanda put on her pigtails and red dress with a big smile. And no wonder, because today is her day, the day she and her family will eat hot pot, dumplings, “and other food we don’t usually eat.” At 12, she’s welcoming the year 4724, according to the Chinese calendar, with great excitement because it’s the Year of the Fire Horse. “It’s very exciting because the animal changes every year; this one represents energy, prosperity, and hope,” she said in perfect Spanish. Delicias Park was filled this Sunday with dragons, red smoke, fire, and traditional music for the New Year’s parade, which drew dozens of families, friends, and spectators.

The Chinese New Year officially begins on February 17th, but the traditional parade was held today. However, it took place in an unusual location, as the event, organized by the Confucius Institute and the Zaragoza City Council, was moved to Delicias Park because the Children’s Carnival celebrations have taken over the city center, where they are normally held.

“This year we’ve brought it to Delicias because there couldn’t be a better place; it’s our own Chinatown. There are so many Chinese businesses and families here,” explained Rafael de Miguel, director of the Confucius Institute, as he greeted those who would be leading the enormous dragon through the park a few minutes later.

Packed to capacity, with cell phones held high and children perched on their parents’ shoulders, the two giant dragons began their parade at 12:00 noon, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Chinese music . Red smoke (the color representing good fortune and happiness in China) and fireworks also captivated young and old alike on a sunny day with a lively atmosphere in Delicias Park.

“For us, this day is like Christmas in Spain . It’s a very, very important day, and we get together with family. We stop working and celebrate and enjoy a new beginning,” explained Ju Pei. On the stage set up in the Delicias Park Amphitheater, the performances of traditional dances and the dragon dance began, featuring colorful costumes from Chinese opera, as well as K-pop-style dances by groups of teenagers.

“I’M LEARNING CHINESE AND I REALLY LIKE ITS CULTURE.”

Many spectators joined the Chinese community of Zaragoza in celebrating their special day, and both the surrounding area and Delicias Park itself became a hive of activity when the clock struck 12:00. “I came specifically to get a spot a little early because I knew it would be packed, it’s such a beautiful day… I’m learning Chinese and I think it’s a great opportunity to delve into their culture, which I also find incredibly interesting,” said Manuel.

Nearby, others hadn’t realized that Chinese New Year was being celebrated this Sunday and were caught up in the festivities. After experiencing the atmosphere, they decided to stay . “I think the parade and the costumes they’re wearing are spectacular . Their culture is very different from ours, and that makes it all the more enriching,” said María del Mar, standing with her grandson Álex.

The celebration continued with dancing, photographs, and great enthusiasm. “It’s like the Flower Offering for us. It’s not only important for the Chinese community in Zaragoza but for them all over the world. In fact, it’s the most important festival of its kind globally. This year is also the Year of the Fire Horse, and this combination of the animal and the element last occurred 60 years ago. It’s very, very special,” affirmed the director of the Confucius Institute.