Dragon Tales

We’re already a few months into the Chinese calendar’s Year of the Boar (or Year of the Pig, to put it more crudely), but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep celebrating. You should head to the Missouri Botanical Garden (4344 Shaw Boulevard; 314-577-9400) as it hosts Chinese Culture Days Saturday and Sunday (May 19 and 20). The party kicks off Saturday at 10 a.m. with an opening parade, which features martial artists, lion dancers and a 70-foot dancing dragon animated by a skilled team of performers. Late-risers can take in a second parade at 2 p.m. both days. In addition to the processions, attendees will experience a cornucopia of Chinese cuisine and culture, including lessons in t’ai ji, shows by the New Shanghai Circus acrobats and tours of the traditional Chinese garden. Admission is $3 to $10, and a complete schedule of events is available at www.mobot.org.
May 19-20