Lions, drums, cymbals and firecrackers chased away evil sprits and welcomed the Chinese Lunar New Year into Hilo Saturday (Feb 13).

The Big Island Shaolin Lion Dance parade started at the Mooheau Bus Terminal and wound its way along the bayfront shops of Hilo. Participants fed the dancing lions red packets of money for good luck as a dragon also wounds its way through the crowd.

From bayfront the celebration moved to Kalakaua Park where more lion dancing, firecrackers and entertainment were provided which included Taiko drumming, martial arts, a keiki Chinese costume contest and cooking demonstrations by Hawaii Community College Culinary Arts Program.

Calligraphy by Lilian Storino at the East Hawaii Cultural Arts Center and numerous food booth were available at the Park as free entertainment was provided on stage.

The actual start of the Luna New Year is Sunday (Feb 14).