The Lion Dance is based on myths of a lion defending a village from monsters and it dates back more than 1,000 years. The dance is performed at Lunar New Year celebrations and is intended to bring good fortune in the coming year. The costume is usually brightly colored especially red, which symbolizes good luck. The lion dances in a zig-zag pattern meant to ward off evil spirits. Firecrackers are set off for the same reason. The Lion Dance originated in China, but is also performed today in many Asian countries and in overseas Chinese communities.

This image shows the Seattle International Lion Dance Team performing at the 1993 Lunar New Year Celebration in Seattle's Chinatown - International District. Lunar New Year fell on January 23 that year, marking the end of the Year of the Monkey and the beginning of the Year of the Rooster.

Caption information source: “Year of the Rooster Wakes Up Seattle,” Seattle Post-Intelligencer, January 25, 1993 ; “Culture – ACA Lion Dance,” https://www.uclaliondance.com/culture.html.

[Previous title - Lion Dance performers on wet street]