Quite a grand opening...

Saturday evening, we were on our way to the park when we happened upon the grand opening of a restaurant just a block from our apartment complex. I must say, they really know how to put on a show! Our idea of a grand opening includes a sign and maybe some balloons, but they go all out here. It's quite a production--loads and loads of flower arrange-ments, ladies in formal evening gowns, the local news station, and quite a crowd.



First was the ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by the performance of a traditional Asian band and the releasing of balloons and confetti.



The highlight, though, was the "Lion Dance"--a traditional celebratory dance performed by people in lion costumes. It was so interesting! If you'd like to see a clip of the dance, just click on the following link: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=849168845372760375&pr=goog-sl

All I can say is, wish you could have been there! We were fascinated as we watched the "lions" perform tricks and playfully compete with one another for the master's ball. My language tutor later explained to me that the ball is called a "pearl" and represents wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. The restaurant owner puts his mark on the eyes of the lions at the beginning of the dance and then they go after the pearl.

We are looking forward to learning more about customs like these as we go about our lives here. Who knows what we'll happen upon next!