The Walnuts Shopping Centre in Orpington held another free community event this weekend, celebrating the Chinese New Year for the first time.

The Chinese Lion Dancers performed to bestow “blessings” on the local businesses in the shopping centre in the traditional way, accepting a lettuce in payment! The children were treated to some free Chinese inspired crafts and also received a lucky red envelope bearing a Chinese coin and red ribbon, another symbol of good fortune. As it is the Year of the Dog the Centre encouraged local dog owners to bring their pampered pooches to town to join in the Dog Show and show off their talents or wardrobe in the Best Dressed Category.

The event also featured a Tai Chi demonstration, and a Fire Eater. The celebrations were finished off with a fireworks display. Former Mayor of Bromley Cllr Kim Botting attended the event, being a great supporter of Chinese culture in the local area.  The event also received invaluable advice and help from Mrs Gigi Chen, headteacher of Orpington Chinese Language School, and we thank her for helping us provide an authentic flavor of Chinese celebrations.