Only a few days away before we officially welcome the Year of the Water Rabbit! In Chinese culture and astrology (I know we have a lot of astrology-loving readers here), the Rabbit is one of the luckiest of the twelve animals of the zodiac. Rabbits are known for being a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. That’s why some cultures even consider them sacred! As we hop into the Lunar New Year, let’s make sure that we’re in good spirits and a festive mood with the help of Shangri-La Plaza‘s Spring Festival festivities.

Manila Millennial checked out the activities for you so you can use this checklist when you drop by the Shang this weekend:

1. Welcome the Year of the Rabbit with a Prosperity Toss at Modern Shanghai

Known as “yee sang”, this Lunar New Year tradition involves tossing salad together with your family and friends. Higher toss means better luck and blessings! This dish is made up of mixed shredded vegetables, raw fish (usually salmon sashimi) and a mix of sauces. After being tossed, the salad is then shared within the group for good fortune.

The Bistro Group’s Modern Shanghai also offers food derived from Shanghai original homecooked recipes to give Filipinos a taste of China’s hearty meals.

2. Watch a movie at the Spring Film Festival

Relax and watch flicks at the Spring Film Festival held at the Red Carpet Cinema until January 24. This year’s lineup showcases the beauty of ancient and modern China and explores a wide range of themes including self-discovery, transcendental love, and longing. Run time of each show is around 30 minutes to two hours.

3. Join a painting workshop and marvel at Chinese artworks

Marvel at unique posters created by the students of the Ateneo Celadon at the Grand Atrium until the Lunar New Year January 22. On the same day, mall guests can have the opportunity to express their creativity by joining an hour-long Denim painting workshop also at the Grand Atrium.

4. Food trip!

Browse and buy Lunar New Year eats and unique finds as Shang’s Streetscape transforms into a Chinese Street Market from January 20 to 22. You can also drop by restaurants around the mall over the weekend for that authentic Chinese cuisine. Here’s a look at some of the food we enjoyed at Modern Shanghai:

5. Watch traditional Chinese music performances

Get into a festive mood on January 22 as Shang presents special musical performances featuring Chinese classical music using traditional instruments at the Grand Atrium, 4:30PM. Mall guests can expect to watch exciting dragon and lion dances, too!

A highlight in every Lunar New Year celebration, both the dragon and the lion are considered as auspicious creatures in Chinese culture, performing these traditional dances during festive occasions are meant to chase evil spirits away and welcome prosperous times. To be more specific, the dragon represents power, boldness, and excellence, while the lion symbolizes strength, stability, and superiority.

Aside from activities you can enjoy inside the mall, you can also catch the great fireworks display on January 21 at 8PM to welcome the year of the Rabbit. Can’t miss this one!

Hope you’ll enjoy this year’s CNY weekend! May our 2023 be more prosperous than ever. Happy Year of the Rabbit!

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