Kung Hei Fat Choi Welcome to The Year of the Horse

The Chinese Lunar New Year will be celebrated 12-14 February 2002. Although Thailand is a Buddhist country, its largest ethnic group is the Thai- Chinese who in Bangkok are mainly to be found in Yaowarat Road (China Town) or Charoen Krung Road, where the majority are involved in commerce. Its therefore not surprising how important the celebration of the Chinese New Year is here in Thailand. Although not an official Public Holiday companies owned by Thai-Chinese families will close for a minimum of three days and some stay closed for a week holiday. As a guide if there is Chinese script over the door it s most likely that the establishment will be closed.

The Chinese are obsessed with the power of the New Year, a chance to make a goods start; the coming of a new hope and prosperity. Before the start of the new year they will clean their houses, pay off debts, visit the family and respect their ancestors.

In the evening of the three nights of the festival celebrations such as special food stalls, Chinese music, Lion Dances and fire crackers. It tends to be spontaneous rather than run to a strict timetable. So if you wish to experience Chinese New Year in Bangkok wander down to China Town after dark and enjoy the atmosphere.

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