Chinatown Plaza celebrates Year of the Tiger

Thursday, Jan. 29, 1998 | 9:44 a.m.

"The tiger is an important animal in the Chinese culture, symbolizing vigor and courageous spirit," said James Chen, event organizer. "It is believed that children born during the Year of the Tiger will be happy."

Chinatown Plaza, 99 Ranch Market and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce have organized the largest Chinese New Year celebration ever held in Las Vegas. "It is especially exciting this year because we have a rare dinosaur exhibit with eight genuine dinosaur fossils, more than 150 million years old, on display in Chinatown Plaza as well," said Chen.

Visitors to Chinatown Plaza during the New Year's celebrations will receive coupons for discounts to the Jurassic Chinasaurs Expo. The coupons will be good for $2 off adult tickets and $1 off children's tickets. The coupons are available at the Jurassic Chinasaurs Expo booth.

Several cultural performances will take place during the day, including Chinese folk dances, Japanese taiko drums, martial arts, Hawaiian Dances and the traditional lion dance. "According to tradition, the lion dance wards off bad energy and replaces it with good energy and positive spirit," said Chen.

The largest authentic Asian food gathering in Las Vegas also takes place during the celebrations, featuring dishes from China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Korea and the Philippines. In addition, more than a dozen Oriental food manufacturers will provide demonstrations and promotions.

Chinatown Plaza is at 4255 Spring Mountain Road. Tickets are $2, $1 for children and children under 4 are free. For more information, call 221-8448.