The annual Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco was this past Saturday. I’ve lived in San Francisco since 1996, and not once have I attended the festivities - as a spectator. One year during high school I was part of the color guard team leading the parade. It was a cold and rainy night, and we marched behind SFPD mounted on horses. Said horses would poop on the street right in front of us from time to time. We literally had to march around those natural landmines while maintaining strict composure. Fun times.
This year, a friend wanted to attend the parade to have content for his Youtube channel. He bought bleacher seats situated right at the end of the parade route - on Kearny and Jackson - next to the VIP judging section. I didn’t realize one had to pay for seating to attend the parade. Of course, there’s plenty of free standing room along the entire route. Enterprising people would get there early and plop down a portable stool.
We were quite enterprising ourself: we got to Chinatown way earlier than necessary. In doing so we didn’t have to detour (and get stuck in traffic) because they haven’t closed down the streets yet for the parade. We parked at the historic Chinatown Hilton hotel for $16 flat fee, then went to explore the street fair on Grant Ave that was also happening the same weekend. It was a sunny afternoon, atypically great weather because it usually rains during the Chinese New Year Parade. Thanks. global warming?
The parade itself was spectacular and surprisingly long. It’s one thing to watch on television, but to be able to see absolutely everything in person is a completely difference experience. Being next to the judges’ pavilion meant every participant stopped and performed in front of us, which was nice. $50 to sit where we sat might be a bit expensive, but I think it’s totally worth it to do it once. The atmosphere is wonderful; super heart-warming to see Asian culture on display.
Afterwards we walked around Chinatown some more. Revelers were lighting up (probably illegal) fireworks and firecrackers on just about every intersection of Grant Ave. A fitting aural tribute to the Lunar New Year celebration.
I think it’s time they change the new to Lunar New Year Parade.