The 2023 Chinese New Year begins with a free New Year Eve night of celebrations today, Saturday, 21st January, starting a 15-day cultural spectacular at the iconic Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple.
The Chinese lunar calendar is one of the most ancient, dating back more than 4,500 years to the reign of the Yellow Emperor, Huang Di. As ancient tradition dictates, Asians throughout the world are busily spring-cleaning their homes and hanging red lanterns in preparation for family gatherings over the New Year festive period.
Sponsored by Logan City Council, this year an expected 30,000 visitors will share the New Year celebrations with family and friends at the Chung Tian Temple. No doubt the persistent, quick-thinking and positive attitude of the Rabbit is sure to bring good affinities and fortune to all present.
In his New Year message, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Founding Master of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order shares that: “during the Year of the Rabbit abundance and joy will yield auspiciousness in your lives and benevolence and harmony will bring you peaceful wellbeing.”
Abbess of the Chung Tian Temple, Venerable Manwang welcomes all to attend the celebrations:
“This is the first time we will hold the New Year Celebrations in the newly completed Stage 2 of the temple. Family and friends are warmly invited to come and celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Rabbit with us, which traditionally is a time for compassion, friendship and protection.”
Commencing at 6:00pm, the evening will end with the ringing of the Temple’s giant Blessing Bell at midnight resonating peace throughout the world and symbolising blessings and good wishes to all and for the New Year.
Chinese New Year Eve Key Activities:
6:00 pm Vegetarian Food Fair, Chinese Tea Ceremony, Water Drop Tea House, Red Lantern Display,Chinese Calligraphy, Art Exhibition Opening, Tai Chi Display, Incense Offering, Temple 3 Good Deeds Mascots and Cultural Performances
8:30pm Light Offering Service
9:10pm Shaolin Kung Fu Guan – Chinese Lion Dance
11:00pm Traditional morning chanting service
12:00midnight Ringing of the Blessing Bell Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Free entry and free parking available (visitors are advised to arrive early)
Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple – 1034 Underwood Road, Priestdale.
