The annual Lunar New Year Parade was damp this year, but that didn't dampen the spirits of attendees.
The parade once again saw thousands gather, from military veterans to children's dance troupes to local companies to Fin (the Canucks orca mascot), on Sunday, Feb. 11. While the rain came down hard at times, the streets were lined with umbrella-wielding crowds.
The New Year's celebration welcomed the year of the dragon, which began Feb. 10, 2024.
While last year saw federal political leaders, this year saw Premier David Eby along with other local politicians at the forefront.
The final group at the end of the parade nearly wasn't allowed to participate. Parade organizers initially rejected the inclusion of two progressive and LGBTQ+ groups, but reversed that decision. The final group to march in the parade (number 79) participated under the banner Lunar New Year For All with Pride flags.
This year police announced in advance that additional officers would be on the scene for this year's event. On Sept. 10, during Light Up Chinatown , three people were stabbed near the end of the event.
-with files from the Canadian Press
