MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - It's the Year of the Pig. On Sunday, Feb. 10th, hundreds of people came to Meridian Mall in celebration of the Chinese New Year.

People sang, danced, and performed traditional acts of the Chinese culture. Among the performances was a dragon parade and traditional women dancing.

The Chinese New Year has over 4,000 years of history. It is the largest celebration in China. It is important to celebrate in America not only to spread culture but to allow people to feel right at home.

The event was free to the public and friendly to all ages. Kids enjoyed coloring and practicing heliography, while adults raffled for prizes including a flat-screen TV.
This is the 7th year that The Greater Lansing Chinese Association has hosted the event at Meridian Mall. One of the hosts, Shou Shang, explained what celebrating the Chinese New Year means to her.

"We are Chinese and we live far way," Shang said. "We are a big group here. When we come together to celebrate the Chinese New Year it is a very good thing."
Shang also shared what everyone must do during the Chinese New Year, and it's not to dance with the dragon or to grab a flute.

"The most important thing during the celebration is to eat some dumplings," Shang said.