Music, fireworks and dancing kicked off Vancouver’s Chinese New Year’s Parade in Chinatown yesterday, which went through a new route because of the Olympics.
Vancouver developer Bob Rennie said the parade was even more important for the community because the eyes of the world are on the city.
“It’s a great chance for Chinatown to showcase itself, it’s been a bit of a forgotten neighbourhood like the Downtown Eastside.”
Peter and Vivian Kee, who live in Vancouver’s south end, have followed the parade for six years and noticed the difference.
“Very nice. It’s a blessing in terms of weather.” said Peter Kee. “(The parade) is shorter, and in terms of atmosphere this year it’s been a little bit quiet, and the way I look at it, less people.”
