Parade Highlights Chinese New Year Events

It’s time to settle old debts, spread red paper scrolls in doorways and welcome the Chinese New Year, known as the Year of the Boar 4693. Celebrations of the new year, which began Tuesday according to the Chinese calendar, are scheduled in Chinatown through March 3.

“It’s the most important holiday of the year for the Chinese,” said Sue Yee of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of the events. “It would be similar to Christmas for us.”

The main event is the Golden Dragon Parade, which will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday. State Treasurer Matt Fong will serve as grand marshal. The parade starts at Main and Temple streets and draws about 50,000 spectators a year.

The Chinese calendar is an ancient system based on the lunar cycle, Yee said. Each new year is named after one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. The animal symbols, six wild and six domestic, rotate years.

Traditionally, children wearing new clothes visit relatives and are given money wrapped in red paper. Paper scrolls printed with blessings and gratitude are also placed on doors and windows to bring good luck and prosperity. Debts must be cleared.

Events include:

* Little king and queen contest: Boys and girls of Chinese descent compete for the title; 2 p.m Saturday at Castelar School, 840 Yale St.

* Chinatown community carnival: Rides, games of skill and food at Castelar School playground; 5 to 10 p.m., Friday; noon to 10 p.m., Saturday and Feb. 19.

Information: (213) 617-0396.