By Joanna Demeo

The Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach and the Outrigger Reef on the Beach kicked off Chinese New Year last weekend with delicious food, a spectacular lion dance, and a fireworks extravaganza for all to enjoy. The festivities began with a traditional lion dance through the Outrigger Reef lobby by the performance group Siu Lum Pai. Guests and employees got the chance to “feed” the lion, as he danced his way through the hotel, eventually ending up on the beach to surprise sunbathers with a special dance on the sand.

Eric Lewis feeds the lion for good luck at the Outrigger Reef

The fun continued at the Outrigger Waikiki with Chinese calligraphy and proverbs and a Chinese cooking demonstration and tasting. Ethan Chang and his mother, Suzette, cooked up gon lo mien and crispy gau gee for everyone to enjoy. Guests then made their way out to the street to watch the fireworks and lion dance in front of the hotel. The loud drums and cymbals could be heard down Kalakaua Avenue and attracted a large crowd. The fireworks wowed the spectators, and the lion danced his way through the hotel, as merchants and guests made offerings to him for good luck.

Mahalo to all participants and employees who made the event possible. Kung Hee Fat Choy!

Ethan Chang and mom, Suzette, cook up delicious Chinese food for all to enjoy

Jim Heather taunts the lion with lettuce in front of the Outrigger Waikiki