Today marks the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year 2012, the Year of the Dragon. One of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, the dragon signifies good fortune and power. In the Chinese astrological cycle, this year is also associated with the element of water, which makes 2012 the Year of the Water Dragon — an emblem of optimism and growth that comes around only once every 60 years. People around the world are ushering in this auspicious year with displays of fireworks, family get-togethers, temple visits, and street festivals. Collected below are images from several countries where revelers have been welcoming the arrival of the Water Dragon.
Above: A performer breaths fire during a dragon dance performance in celebration of the Chinese New Year at Manila’s Chinatown district, on January 23, 2012 in the Philippines. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)
See more fantastic images at The Atlantic
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aku teringin nk buat benda ni lorh
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herbkins reblogged this from picturesoftheday and added:
Cleaning my house for that auspicious kick! Welcome year of the dragon! :D
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