"Fu" to You!

Lion dancing in Portland? You bet, especially if it is the Lunar New Year, this year being the Year of the Rat. Where best to view the celebrations? Duh, in Old Town Chinatown, of course! We got a ringside, er table side view of the annual event when we dined at Fong Chong Restaurant. Seated at the front window near the door (probably not the “A List” spot), we were able to see both the exterior and interior performances.

Young boys, light enough to balance on top of each other, were costumed in the elaborate lion garb. Drums rolled, firecrackers popped, and lions did their thing. It was a fine display that extended into the restaurant, where the garbed lions and entourage danced their way into the kitchen to wish all there “Fu” or blessing, good fortune, and good luck.
At the end of the noisy performance, the diners stood and applauded the exciting and unexpected fine presentation.
As we left, we noted that lettuce and oranges had been placed at the entrance, a symbol, we were told, to appease the lions and give great “Fu” for the coming year.