Aside from the dances, ,every mall tenant hung a red envelope containing money above the doorstep or signage of their area and then the lion ate it signifying that there will be an abundance of everything in the coming year.
According to traditional Chinese belief, the lion signifies courage, stability and superiority.
The lion dance is performed to chase away ghosts and evil spirits, and since the monsters, ghosts, evil spirits and giants are afraid of loud Celebrating Chinese New Year at SM noises, the dance has become a natural complement to the fire crackers’ noise. Dragons on the other hand are linked to good luck, long life and wisdom.
Meanwhile, to complete the Chinese New Year celebration in the mall, a Pet’s Fun Day: Chinese New Year Costume competition was conducted at the roof deck of SM City Olongapo during the weekend. Adorable dogs strolled on stage in their colorful Chinese costumes.
“We enjoyed it, these dogs are so entertaining,” said one customer.
The Dragon and Lion dance is a yearly activity at SM malls in celebration of the Chinese New Year.
