More than 100,000 watched the Annual Golden Dragon Parade in Chinatown

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles presented its 127th Annual Golden Dragon Parade on Saturday in Chinatown. The event celebrated the Lunar New Year. The event included marching bands, representatives from local businesses, cultural groups, entertainers, floats, Miss Chinatown and her court, and government officials.

The theme of the parade was “Unity in the Community.” Among those seen at the parade were Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, the President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Chester Chong and Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman — who was named honorary grand marshal.

The chamber estimated that more than 100,000 spectators crowded the streets to celebrate the Year of the Horse. The Year of the Horse represents a period of intense energy, rapid change, and bold and independent movement.

It symbolizes a time to act with conviction, embrace freedom, and pursue ambitious goals, while also requiring caution against recklessness and impatience.

A highlight of the annual parade was the dragon dance, a colorful and symbolic dragon figure manipulated on poles with coordinated dance, dexterity and strength by a skilled dance team. The dragon is said to scare away bad spirits and bring good luck.