Lions, lanterns and laughter as Chinese New Year is celebrated in Omagh

A SPARKLING ruby red and gold-speckled lion was serenaded with music, poetry and dance, as the beginning of the Chinese New Year was celebrated with fervour and hope in Omagh.

Taking place at the Omagh Community House, which was beautifully decorated with lanterns, the colourful celebrations were attended by more than 60 members of the Chinese community, along with members of the local community to welcome the ‘Year of the Tiger’.

Local Chinese community leader, Jimmy Law, acted as compere, and also delivered a very moving presentation of his journey from China to Omagh more than 40 years ago.

Other contributors from the
Chinese community included Jessica Chaffey, from the Enniskillen group, and local resident Lee Cheung, who provided fantastic musical entertainment.

William Olphert, chief executive of the Chinese Welfare Association Belfast, regaled the audience with
his experience of learning to speak Chinese as a young teenager in Ballymoney.

And finally, attendees were treated to a stunning performance of the traditional ‘Lion Dance’, led by the talented Calum Cheung, while an excellent array of food was prepared by Joe Law, from the Jamm Restaurant.

The highly-successful event was sponsored by the Community Relations Council NI, and proved a very welcome return to the celebration following a break of two years due to Covid-19 restrictions.