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Chinese New Year Parade
Rating Details »
Category: Local Flavor [Edit]
Neighborhood: Financial District233 Sansome Street
Suite 1100
(between California St & Pine St)
San Francisco, CA 94104
(415) 391-9680
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
32 reviews for Chinese New Year Parade
First time I attended the Chinese New Year Parade was in middle school and I remember liking it. I remember it did drizzle a little though and I hear it rains EVERY year at the parade.
Second time was 2/7/09 and no rain at all!! Finding a place to stand is very strategic. I do NOT recommend planting yourself in North Beach, near the end of the parade. Even though there might be more room and the hill is slanted (so the higher you stand, the more you can see), nothing really happens at the end. The participants will have just passed the bleachers where the judges and VIPs are seated so that's where all their effort goes into. By the time they turn towards Columbus, they pretty much get ready to go home. It makes it worse that there isn't much lighting either!!
After 30 minutes, I got fed up at seeing nothing so I walked over to the bleachers. Sometimes people leave early so you can just stand behind the bleachers to get glimpses through empty spots. The commentator was hilarious. His jokes were cheesy and his SF pride was definitely showing. Even though there are thousands of people watching, the nearby restaurants aren't terribly busy. My biggest regret was getting to the parade late and missing Gavin Newsom!! Argh.
Next year: Chinese New Year Treasure Hunt
People thought this was:
- Useful (4)
- Funny (3)
- Cool (3)
It was the first time for both of us to see the CNY parade, so the perfect thing to do as a couple! We got there after 5... not a great idea because there are no spots left, but some people were getting very creative (sitting on top of the revolving doors at NM even).
The mister didn't wanna sit in the bleachers and that is fine with me because we didn't want to stay for the entire thing. We loved the HUGE dragon as well as many of the floats that came through. Nothing disastrous happened and we had a few snacks to keep the cranky side of us from coming out.
Getting in was easy... getting out... a completely different story! At least it didn't rain! Also, it was fun watching people trying to climb the back of the bleachers to take photos. A few times I just knew someone was gonna pancake, but it never happened. It's nice that they keep it going, but I think next time I'll watch it at home.
People thought this was:
- Useful (5)
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Missed Connection: You looked so lovely sitting on your float, m4w.
Me: Extremely tall, Handsome, Asian, Mid-twenties, with a throwback Phillies cap and a dark gray jacket.
You: Shapely, Beautiful, Asian, Smiling and waving at the crowd. Early twenties (perhaps?) Also, you are Miss Chinatown.
On the off chance that the 2009, Year of the Ox, Miss Chinatown is reading this, I think we shared a moment on Saturday night. We were at the beginning of the parade route, I mimed for you to call me, and you blew me a kiss. That's when I yelled out that I loved you, but perhaps you were too shy to reciprocate.
The setting for us to meet was perfect. I don't think I've ever had a better time at a parade! Certainly the San Francisco Chinese New Year's celebration lives up to it's reputation as one of the best parades in the country. You were so graceful and glamorous presiding over a parade of thousands, and adored by many thousands more. Great job (I am also gainfully employed)! The performances were so colorful and festive (just like the many fun activities you and I could enjoy)! Especially the wee-ones; did you get a chance to see all the young children that performed? (I also can tolerate kids, if you're into them).
Anyways, if you want to give it a shot, I'm more than willing to accompany you on any more floats you may have to sit on. I'm very good at waving.
People thought this was:
- Useful (4)
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I've watched bits and pieces through the years always on the television. This was my first time attending the parade in person. When my friend asked me I hesitated because I've remembered that it usually gets rained upon, but when he told me we'd have seats in the stands I said yes. The last thing I would have wanted would have been to stand in the rain for a couple of hours.
We lucked out and it didn't rain, but I still froze my tushy off because it was freezing cold. We were near the end of the parade route and there were lots of pauses and very little continuity, but I enjoyed my first experience at the chinese new year parade very much.
I enjoyed the beautiful dancing lions, the colorful dragons, all the cute little children who dressed like baby cows and wow, the firecrackers! My friend was hoping to see his former politician boss ride in the parade, but he was a bit disappointed that she did not attend. I think he still had a pretty good time though. He had me to keep him company and he even got a high five from mayor gavin!
People thought this was:
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Not sure there are too many other cities in the U.S. of A. where massive dragons get to dance down city streets. But here they do.
Outside of the dragon, plenty of other costumed eye candy, lots of firecrackers, tons of floats, and a few awkward sponsorships. The float for the (we're almost broke and out of water) California lottery where people were doing a not quite synchronized routine to a terrible 80's song about money? Not so good.
But overall, worth seeing, a least once. Stuff like this is what makes our city so freaking awesome.
People thought this was:
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I only wished this parade started earlier in the day. My friends and I were sitting near the end of the parade route on kearny between california and pine. By the time we could see the parade, it was already past 6pm and you could see the performers getting really tired (the lion dancers were out of their costume and just walking)!! It was dark and hard to see things. The parade wasn't over until past 8:30pm!!! So long!!! O_O Some parts of the parade were cheesy and boring, and other parts were ok. My butt was numb and frozen! It was freezing cold even with all the layers that I had on!!! Instead of selling cotton candy and those blinking necklaces, someone should sell warm food and drinks!!! Be careful of those firecrackers! If you sit on the curb, you might get hit by them (and they hurt)!
Highlight: the really long and lit up dragon!! that was neat!
I think next time I'll stay away from the crowds and just watch it at home. Believe me, you're better off not freezing to death!!
People thought this was:
- Funny (1)
Touristy. Crowded. Freezing.
Why 5 stars?
Cause we got to hang with Gavin Newsom!
Pretty...crowded.
This is an impressive parade in its sheer size, but it is matched by the equally enormous crowd the whole length of the parade. I like how this parade is at night and it was great to watch in person at least once. There are a lot of good floats and fireworks, but I think I'll just watch it in HD and avoid the hassle.
Coming from Fremont via BART, my BF, his sis, her friend and I got off of near the starting point of the parade on Montgomery Street. We arrived promptly at 5:15pm, which the website said as the official start time.
As we emerged from the sardine-packed train and into the intersection of New Montgomery and Market, we found ourselves in the middle of mayhem! Literally, thousands of people had already shown up early to line up Market street on both sides. It was packed and overly dense that it was hard to see what the the hell kind of puppetry, outrageous designs, and costumes that were parading down the street.
Fast forward all the fabulous cars/trucks/vehicles of Board of Supervisors, SF Police Dept Chief, the dashingly handsome Gavin Newsome (mayor of SF for those who didn't know), and all the random Asian politicians... we finally saw the DRAGON. Not one... not two... but THREE! Frightening loud explosions from firecrackers kept us on our toes during the entire hooplah performances of dragonwalkers (is that the right terminology?), local high school kids, and random asian folk.
The parade lasted about 5+ hours. We couldn't wait to stand longer than 3 hours straight so we bounced and went home. It was a fun experience, even more funner that the weather was super cooperative (not a raindrop in sight!).
Weather was shite last year, but I have been going since I was a little kid. I have little to say other than I wouldn't brave this versus Folsom.
The weather was wicked bad last year. I am not being a sissy. I usually say, "There is no bad weather, just bad clothing".
Nah... screw what I usually say.
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Here we are on kearny and sutter st with not a drop of rain this year. I'm enjoying every single minute of it. The floats,drums,symbols,trumpets,flutes,and my very dear friend Amy Chu waving @ the crowds with her traditional pageant dress and silky white gloves. Over all it was a good parade well organized and no major problems. So gung hay fat choy to all my asian and non-asian friends let this year prosper for all of us....
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For my first year @ the parade there were some definite highlights! The kids on stilts and the large dragon with about 15 people in it were amazing.
It was funny that the rain forced the decorations to look a little haphazard. Things that should have been colorful and bright were covered in ponchos and tarps. Even the people were having problems that lined the streets. All the umbrellas everyone had open tended to just get in the way and drip on those surrounding you. At least the rain wasn't constant.
I also found it funny that there was a funnel cake booth with fried corn dogs and such, as well as a balloon shop. It was fun to see all the people and almost shake Gavin Newsom's hand... I was soo close and he breezed over me, damn!
People thought this was:
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Gung Hei Fat Choy and Gung Hei Sun Neen!! (Happy Prosperity and New Year)
This is the year of the Boar. It is also Matt's year and It means:
Pay attention to your health. A well-balanced diet as well as sufficient exercise is indicated. Talk to your doctor about the best way to get fit this year.
"So Matt can't eat TWO Super-Burritos in one serving? Ha-ha, yeah right!"
Work will be constructive, building on recent accomplishments. Put forth your ideas and skills to benefit from the opportunities that come your way. There may not be many, so be prepared, for they will be ideal for you. Especially favored in the months of May, June and November.
"Matt will wait and see. Thanksgiving is in November, and Matt eats like a BOAR."
Financially, there will be an improvement in income, but spending levels will remain fairly high. Think carefully before making any large purchases. Use freelance work or special skills for extra income.
"Hey, where is my raise? And why does Matt has so much bills? Looking for another skills for extra money? Sorry no prostitution for Matt."
Matt has seen The Chinese New Year Parade live or on TV since he was in diapers, and will continue to do so until he is 6 ft. under. This is also his third go-around with the Year of the Boar, and Matt wouldn't dare miss this parade for damn sure, because this is his year. Over the years, the parade has never change and seems to get better and better every year. In addition to the traditional Lion-dance and the "Loud" fire-crackers, marching bands from school of all ages and profit and non-profit organizations marched down the streets from the Financial District to the very of end of Chinatown. Other noticeable celebrities participating in the parade includes the Mayor of San Francisco, and the Miss Chinatown contestants including the newly crown winner of the current year. Talk about a Goodwill Ambassador, Yum!
Out of all the San Francisco events, the Chinese New Year Parade is the most attractive and the biggest event of the year for all ages. And yes, like all SF events, people get drunk at the Chinese New Year Parade!!
Firecrackers: "POW, POW, POW, POW, POW!!"
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Disclaimer: I am a participant in the parade, so I am not reviewing the parade from the spectator's point of view.
While most of you were at home enjoying the parade from your 50" flat screen HDTV, I was there on the streets of downtown San Francisco, waving to the camera and flashing my brightest smile despite the chill, rain and wind. Dreadful weather aside, the tourists and local folks always make the parade fun and well worth it. All that for my 5-seconds of fame. Sorry, no autographs please!
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At last, for the first time I ventured out to see the parade taking place in downtown SF. A pleasurable event, despite the weather. This city has some dedicated people, and the weather doesn't stop us!
An enjoyable event, that was very entertaining. Dragons floating around, various decorated floats, cute little kids in costumes, people in stilts, bands playing music, lights everywhere. It was very eventful as I stood on Kearny St, watching among the crowded streets. Just be aware if you're short get a good spot up front or somewhere above!
Drenched in rain, and drizzled on by the sea of umbrellas, but the on and off again rain didn't ruin the fun. And even the mayor at the end of the parade!
A lively event, with people even selling food on the streets. And to my surprise, corn dogs and funnel cakes? Hmmm and in Chinatown, I had to laugh. Of course the bf HAD to get the funnel cake.
Don't forget to check out the other events related to Chinese New Years happening during the day time!
A perfect year to see the parade for the first time, as I am a Rat! :)
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I love to watch this parade every year, I love it above all other parades in the Bay Area. This year lived up to every expectation and more. I loved the children all dressed in cute mice costumes, the beautiful dancing ladies, the fabulous floats, the firecrackers, the confetti, and of course the fantastic dancing lions.
Just about every year for as long as I can remember it has rained - there was one year it didn't, and it was weird. The rain makes the bright lights and colors look much more vibrant.
But I give a negative star for the Bay Area news stations earlier in the day over dramatizing this "storm" coming - making it sound like a monsoon was about to hit.
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Pretty cool parade, I like all the dragons, stilt kids, floats and whatnot...
...albeit its crowded with locals and tourists alike.
I usually see it from Stockton and Geary... which is pretty close to the cameras and stuff.
I don't like leaving the parade though. On my way to the BART station there were few kids getting toked up and I had to go through the disgusting smell of mary-juh-wanna.
When I arrived at the station... it was crowded as hell. I had nowhere on the train to rest so I had to stand throughout the whole way.
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Ehhh .. it's not that great . I used to love watching it but now I feel like it's just kind of boring . It mostly rains on the day of the Chinese New Year Parade . I participated like a year or two ago holding up a sign . My arms got really tired afterwards !! ): I'm glad it didn't rain though . I think the Chinese New Year is a nice tradition .. it's a nice way to end the Chinese New Years and bring us into the new year .
I am a tough judge of these things. I lived in Hong Kong as a child so my point of reference is hard to beat. The parade here is just not nearly as awesome as the real deal.
In addition, I am older now, and white, and back in the US, so I havent received a red envelope in just about forever, which was my FAVORITE part of Chinese New Year (I'm no fool).
But, I will still give this over crowded, commercial, Macys sponsored event a break for one reason. I dont remember, as a child, seeing a bunch of 16 and 17 year old Chinese teens going for the gold in a rap competition. Priceless!
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I saw the one from about 5 years ago...
I thought it was not worth it.
It was boring and just strange how they have it weeks past the actual celebration week!
Yeah, I'm a debbie downer...
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I found the parade to be cheesy and quite disappointing. We had a great spot to watch it from and even a few drinks did not help me enjoy it as much as I thought I would, thanks to a great company of people around me, otherwise I would just be bored. I will sure give it a second try next year...
The costumes were nice --- I'll give them that! :-)
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I've had the pleasure of viewing this parade more times than I can remember. Whether it was in person or on the television, it always gives me a sense of pride yet at the same time I always cant wait til it is over.
8 years old
Me: Ma, I can't see. Can we go yet? My feet are tired.
14 years old
Me: Aww man. That was hella fresh!
20 years old
Me: Come on kids. Do some of that kung fu sh*t!!! (lazy ass, they only perform for the cameras.)
25 years old
Me: Wtf. It's cold and it's raining. Next year we're watching this at home.
28 years old
Me: Wow..that was really good. I'm so glad we didn't go down there in person with all the crowd and traffic.
People thought this was:
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YAY! I loved this parade...but then again I haven't been to a parade in eons. Was fairly crowded with your typical San Fran crowd (too cool hipsters, pissy drunks, confused visiting suburban families).
However...where else will you see Gay Cheerleaders, a Trash Can Drill team, and the cutest multi-cultural grouping of kids dressed as "pigs/boars" but in the City.
The crowd was a bit quiet for my taste. You'd probably get more energy from a basketball game, but we were able to generate a nice cheering section (of which most of the parade participants really seemed to appreciate)!
Won't need to go again for a few years, but it was wild enough for me to still be trying to gain my voice back :-) Can't remember the name of the Chinese restaurant we went to (Was very hard to find food afterwards) + I think some Sake was poured into my kool-aid, but the food was hard core and excellent!
UPDATE: Should I still twitch at the sound of a loud pop? Ummmm...forgot to mention that the firecrackers were a wee bit out of control. I'm starting to feel like a survivor from Nam.
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What luck...The Year of the Rat has graced us with chilly but bearable weather for the parade. It was supposed to be miserable, but it wasn't. Excitement, crowds and loads of colors. As Herb Caen used to say, SF is the City that knows how. Then, a brisk walk down to O'Neill's on 3rd for a cousin's 40th birthday party, and who's there helping to celebrate? Lou Seal...the Giant's mascot! Walk back to BART...still no downpour, and it's a night to remember.
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I partake in this dynamite, colaso celebration every year. I have done so since middle school and have been hooked ever since. I love all of the festively and traditionally decorated floats and cheering on everyone from the city officials and channel 2 reporters to the little kids and especially the guys from Sunset Scavenger Company and Golden Gate Disposal & Recycling Company which I probably shout out to the loudest and get several responses and waves from them. Rain or shine, I am out there and will be for life. There is nothing like staying over night in Chinatown and having Chinese food for lunch and dinner.
The parade's seems aimed at kids in the past few years, but here's some grown up fun: challenge your punning or puzzling brain as a sleuth or just say "Forget it Jake -- it's Chinatown."
Jason Wechter, a private eye, creates cryptic clues to secret spots in North Beach and Chinatown for a treasure hunt during the Chinese New Years Parade. You still enjoy the parade, in passing.
I named our team "Gung Ho Fat Chance" but wished everyone Gung Hay Fai Choy anyway. Some teams camp it up, wearing costumes (which I always love). I remember pictogram clues best: Grant on money (a $50?) leading to the blues club, Grant & Green, and another with a mouthy woman with water and sailboats between her teeth (the Portsmouth garage). Clever Wechter comes up with new clues every year.
http://www.sftreasureh...
A quote from the Chronicle this week: "This is very San Francisco,'' said David Pritikin. "You get to run around town and act like an idiot, dress like a clown and solve puzzles. Sounds good to me.'' Me, too, but I'm an old San Franciscan, especially if this year is really 4705.
I have never actually watched the parade so I won't comment on that, but the overall logistics and execution of this event are piss-poor. Someone please tell me how is it ok for them to close off an ENTIRE 5x5-block section of the city for 4 hours on a Saturday night????? I wouldn't be so irate if I didn't happen to live right in said section and was not able to park my car or get home for over 3 hours tonight, with a sick puppy in the car coming back from a visit to the emergency vet clinic. I have made it a point the last few years to leave town during parade weekend to avoid this Complete ClusterFuck, and I now see that I was sorely mistaken to have stayed this year. Ridiculous. And don't even get me started on all the tourists walking around with headlamps on after the parade doing a scavenger hunt or some such nonsense, or the fact that I now have to listen to firecrackers going off until late in the night. I am not usually this toxic but I am really, really pissed at the way they organize this.
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Simply amazing though I came home to watch the remaining of the parade! The crowd was overwhelming and it is one of the biggest parade EVAR! $25000 dragon, Mayor Gavin Newsom in a traditional Chinese shirt, elaborate floats, 1700 little children participating...truly a wonderful San Francisco experience!
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Definitely my favorite parade in parade town! So much excitement, so many elaborate costumes, loud ass firecrackers going pop all over the place! Plus you are in a good part of town for grubbing after wards.
Four stars for bringing asian culture right to the doorsteps of my old apartment...minus one star for making the streets of chinatown even more unnavigable than they usually are..
Even though I'm not Chinese,Chinese New Year is my favorite holiday of the year. The Chinese New Year Parade really kicks off the Chinese New Year Spirit. Hopefully,if it doesn't rain,my dad and I will go this year.
Haha... When else can you find a giant dragon breathing smoke on Kearney Street under bright floodlights? Families with kids wandering downtown in dense crowds after dark? Drunks with washboards singing songs in the middle of the street while cops look the other way?
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