Chinese New Year

In a few days it will be the start of the Chinese New Year. It will be the Year of the Monkey (a Green Wooden Monkey at that). All over the world, anywhere there is a significant Chinese population, there will be celebrations, firecrackers, and dragon/lion dances. There will be feasts, and large family get togethers.
I remember as a kid, going downtown, watching the lion dances, and getting scared by the firecrackers and loud drum noises. So much excitement around. It was a fun time, and something I’ve missed since moving to the US. All of the places I’ve lived so far have lacked a significant Chinese population, so I’ve missed the festivities. Maybe this year I’ll find something.