Free Thinking: Chinese New Year Events 2009050

No need to think outside the Ox; this year the baton passes from rat to ox on the Chinese Horoscope, and the event is greeted locally by the elaborate and free Golden Dragon Parade and Festival in the heart of Chinatown.

A few blocks away, latino LA pays its respects to the Asian holiday with the Eighth Annual Lantern Festival along Olvera Street. While up in the San Gabriel Valley the Lunar New Year Parade and Fair draws plenty of families to Alhambra.

Way up in Tarzana, the Community Center is hosting a kid-focused celebration of its own, and The Huntington presents its Chinese New Year Festival with flower arranging and a traditional flower market.

The West Valley Chinese Academy offers a traditional performance of dance, music, and magic. Fitness-minded families can participate in the 31st annual Firecracker 10K/5K Run and Walk.

Finally, there are a few museums that are particularly good to visit at this time of year, including the Pacific Asia Museum and the Chinese American Museum.