Lunar New Year family day

LUNAR NEW YEAR FAMILY DAY

Saturday, February 16: various festivities for kids and adults; see program below

AT: Peabody Essex Museum

INFO: pem.org or 978-745-9500

COST: All programs are included with museum admission.

Several Asian countries observe Lunar New Year, which falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice.

The year of the rat begins February 7 and is marked with festivals and celebrations. Those born in the year of the rat, the first sign in the Chinese zodiac, are regarded as hardworking, charming and ambitious.

PEM is pleased to honor the new year with our friends from the Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association (GBCCA) with a day of performances and activities for the whole family.

PERFORMANCE
Lion Dance
11:30 am and 3:30 pm, Atrium

To mark the beginning of the new year, GBCCA performs a lion dance.

FAMILY ART ACTIVITIES
Noon-4:00 pm, Art Studios

Participants of all ages learn about the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac and celebrate the new year with art projects.

DEMONSTRATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
Mah-jongg
1:00-4:00 pm, Bartlett Gallery

Experienced players from the GBCCA share their skills and enthusiasm for this traditional Chinese game with 144 colorful tiles.

PERFORMANCE
Melody Dance Troupe
1:30 pm, Atrium

GBCCA members present a range of traditional Chinese dances, including one that is performed in the style of Chinese opera.

FILM
Mah-Jongg: The Tiles That Bind
1998, 32 minutes,
Directed by Phyllis Heller and Bari Pearlman
4:15 pm, Morse Auditorium

In this heartwarming documentary, the directors explore how a centuries-old Chinese board game can act as a bridge between generations, continents and cultures. DVD Format

Made possible by the Lowell Institute

ADULT WORKSHOP
Paste Paper

Feb. 16, Saturday, 10 am - 3 pm
non-members $45
Phillips Library Auditorium

Reservations by February 13
For reservations and information, call 978-745-9500 x3011

Paste papers have many uses - greeting cards, paper jewelry, book covers or artwork. This workshop, led by Sidney Berger, explores the simple process that produces brilliant handmade paper designs.

Wear clothes and shoes that can get splattered. Box lunch included. Paste paper is also the focus of children's drop-in art activities during school vacation week, Feb 18-23.