For those keeping count, this is actually the fourth, and final, post about the CNY Here in HK. Click here for the pics
The parade was pretty cool but it started late and took FOREVER! An eight o'clock start time turned into 8:40 and the time between floats or groups was as long as 20 minutes sometimes. But at least we did it. Check that off the list.
There were participants from all over the globe. The Louisiana State cheer squad, a majorette group from the Czech republic, dancers from Peru and even the Samba Institute of London made an appearance. Certainly there were groups from all over the local region too. The Thailand contingent was probably the one I liked the best. Unfortunately, the photos I got of that group didn't make the final cut.
The parade was on Thursday, Feb 3. Friday the 4th of Feb was when they held the big fireworks display. We had dinner right next to the harbor but our view was obscured by some trees. Fortunately, they had closed the streets and Alex and I were able to get a little closer.
The street was wall to wall people but for the most part, the crowd was well behaved. Unlike the crowd for the parade which had people pushing and shoving trying to get the best view. We were front row at one point when all of a sudden, this guy and his daughter tried to muscle in on our spot. Julie finally let the girl squeeze past her since she could see over her head. But when it came time for the Dad to stand right in front of me and hold his camera right in front of mine, I had to say something. He understood and was kind enough to let me share my spot.
We can't figure out if the people over here are pushy and aggressive because they're Asian or just because they live in a big city. I think it's probably a big city style that's normal for all people who live in a crowded environment.
The fireworks photos are pretty bland as far as photos of fireworks go. But, if you have ever tried to take pictures of fireworks then you should appreciate these. They anchored four barges in the middle of the harbor to use as a launch pad. Pretty impressive display with rockets that even lit up the sky with "2011". Never seen that before.
So ends our first Chinese New Year celebration. Hope you enjoyed following along.
We can't figure out if the people over here are pushy and aggressive because they're Asian or just because they live in a big city. I think it's probably a big city style that's normal for all people who live in a crowded environment.
The fireworks photos are pretty bland as far as photos of fireworks go. But, if you have ever tried to take pictures of fireworks then you should appreciate these. They anchored four barges in the middle of the harbor to use as a launch pad. Pretty impressive display with rockets that even lit up the sky with "2011". Never seen that before.
So ends our first Chinese New Year celebration. Hope you enjoyed following along.
