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The Chinese New Year in Manila most believe that it began with the mythical conquest
of Nian. The term Nian means year that was a monster that hunted people the night
before the New Year. But an old man dared to tell the monster to prey on other
monsters that can be a match to him than the helpless humans. It seems the monster
bought the idea and went his way.
No matter the origin of the Manila Chinese New Year festival the celebration
is a major event amongst the Chinese community in the South East Asia. During
this time the houses are decorated, the debts are repaid and all are prepared
to step into a new year. The doors are decorated with the gold and red scrolls
that are inscribed with wishes with good charms and also the doors and the windowpanes
are given a fresh paint.
It is said that the Chinese community came to Philippines in the 10th century.
When the Spanish conquistadors came to Philippines in the 16th century they
found a community of Chinese merchants. They then supplied the Spanish with
the food and other economic services.
The Chinese New Year in Manila is celebrated with all the fun and excitement
as in any region. There is a big parade in the Binondo region that features
the Manila Chinatown Millennium Dragon and that is 228 feet long and is brightly
colored with the colors of Philippine flag. Behind the big dragon during the
Manila's Chinese New Year festival there are two other small dragons, two southern
lions, two northern lions, nine carps, two unicorns and a phoenix.
During the Chinese New Year in Manila would be a time to feast on the culinary
delights especially in the Binondo area where the diners are homely. The dishes
served are the old time favorites.
AsiaRooms provides information on Chinese New Year, Manila and for further
information check the other web links of AsiaRooms
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