It is the Year of the Dragon for the Chinese New Year. The High Point Chinese SDA Church hosted their 3rd annual Chinese New Year Festival on Sunday.
"Year of the Dragon also symbolizes honor and nobility, success, good luck, because we want to have good luck for sure right, good success," said Dennis Li, Director of the festival.
Dennis Li is the Pastor at High Point Chinese SDA Church and is the driving force behind the annual Chinese New Year Festival.
Originally from China, Li moved to the Scenic City seven years ago and works to bring together Chattanoogans of all different backgrounds.
"Regardless of religion, regardless of race or color, all come together, celebrate, lets have a good family reunion here," said Li.
The festival always has authentic Chinese food and merchandise you won't find anywhere here because it's all made traditionally or came directly from China.
"Right now I'm holding a hand painted dragon, you can see it's very detailed, and not only those pre made ones, we can translate your name to Chinese and create your own Chinese bookmark," said Xue Gautreaux, member with High Point Chinese SDA Church.
Xue and her husband Jonathan are one of the many vendors to discover. Along with hand drawn items you can also join in on a variety of games.
Other activities include live music, a dragon dance, and an interactive story following a young boy on his journey to the dragon pearl.
"Through out his journey he is able to experience the wonderful performers that will dance," said Shasha, Program Show Director for the festival.
The celebration ends Sunday at 7:30 pm, you can purchase tickets on their website. If you missed out but want to keep up with the church and future events, visit their website.Â
