By Michaela Meade
Shoppers are being encouraged to join in the Lunar New Year celebrations at Craigieburn Central this Saturday.
The year of the ox will be celebrated with family reunions, feasts and blessings to family and friends for the many Australians with Asian cultural backgrounds.
Mama’s Chinese Kitchen co-owner Nghi Ly said that in China, the 15-day celebration traditionally begins with a family feast followed by a lion dance, fireworks and lantern festival.
“It’s a time for new beginnings, observing traditions and family gatherings,” Ms Ly said.
“Tradition and culture are very important to our family and passed down from one generation to the next, representing fortune, happiness, and health.”
Craigieburn Central centre manager Janet Reading said employees enjoyed celebrating Lunar New Year.
“It reflects our pride of being part of this culturally rich community,” Ms Reading said.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to wish our customers great happiness and prosperity for the year ahead.”
Some of the activities Craigieburn Central will hold include a roving lion dance and free kids crafts.
Details: www.craigieburncentral.com.au
