Thousands crowded the streets of downtown Honolulu as Hawaii celebrated the Year of the Snake throughout the month of February. Various festivities were held to mark the Chinese New Year. Cultural displays, dances, martial arts demonstrations, food, music and of course, the lion dance delighted the crowds. Among the most popular activities were the blessing of the shops in Chinatown – known as Choi Cheng (Choy Chang) – and a Chinese New Year Parade that accompanied a huge block party. But, everyone’s favorite had to be the lion dance, and they were not disappointed.