Say hello to the Year of the Dragon with a series of Cantonese Lion and Dragon performances from the legendary Flower City Dragon and Lion Dance Association!

Cantonese Lion dance (舞獅) originated in Guangdong. The lion has a single horn and is associated with the legend of a mythical monster called Nian. Its head is traditionally constructed using papier-mâché over a bamboo frame covered with gauze, then painted and decorated with fur. The lion dance is performed by mimicking a lion’s movements to bring good luck and fortune. It is normally operated by two dancers, one of whom manipulates the head while the other forms the rear end of the lion. Cantonese lion dance fundamental movements can be found in Chinese martial arts, and it is commonly performed to a vigorous drum beat. 

Dragon dance is a form of traditional dance and performance in Chinese culture. Like the lion dance, it is most often seen during festive celebrations. The dance is performed by a team of experienced dancers who manipulate a long flexible giant puppet of a dragon using poles positioned at regular intervals along the length of the dragon. The dance team simulates the imagined movements of this river spirit in a sinuous, undulating manner.

The performers at this event are from Flower City Dragon and Lion Dance Association. There will be several performances throughout the day long event, as well as oppotunities to take photos with you favourite performing Lion, Dragon or Unicorn!