ECONOMYNEXT – Shangri-La Colombo rang in the Year of the Snake with a celebration that featured a lion dance, blessings and Chinese customs.
The celebrations began with the lion eye-dotting ceremony, a revered ritual believed to awaken the lions’ spirits and invite good fortune, performed at the entrance by Shangri-La Colombo Director of Operations Zal Tarapore.
The celebration came to life with the lighting of firecrackers, followed by the lion dance.
Shang Palace staff added to the merriment by offering chocolate coins and assorted candies, which the lions tossed to guests.
The traditional Yee Sang tossing, a custom symbolizing prosperity, unity and success, had guests tossing the ingredients high into the air.
“With a perfect blend of heritage, culture and festivity, Shangri-La Colombo’s Chinese New Year celebration was a memorable start to the Year of the Snake, embracing the spirit of renewal, joy and prosperity,” the hotel said.
Here are some pictures of the celebration: