Politicians and kids enjoy rain-drenched Vancouver Chinese New Year parade

by Charlie Smith on February 14th, 2016 at 2:43 PM

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What can you say about today's Chinese New Year parade in Chinatown?

Like every other year, there were lots of lion dancers. And there were probably even more politicians and police officers on hand.

As in the past, there were marching bands, people representing different parts of China, school groups, and a large contingent from Vancity credit union.

Like in past years, the Sikh Motorcycle Club also roared up Pender Street and back down Keefer Street. Plus, there were plenty of fire crackers.

The Sikh Motorcycle Club added a multicultural dimension.

Charlie Smith

What was different was the amount of rain. Whereas last year's event went off without a hitch in the sunshine, it was all brollies and rubber boots today.

The parade also coincided with the February 14th Women's Memorial March, which started an hour later at the corner of East Hastings and Main streets.

That made it fairly easy for several politicos to attend both events.