The Mai Wah Society will once again host Butte America’s annual Chinese New Year Parade, which has been described as the shortest, loudest, and (sometimes) coldest parade in Montana. Celebrating the “Year of the Rabbit,” the parade will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2023. It will start at the Butte-Silver Bow Courthouse (155 West Granite) at 3:00 p.m.

Following opening remarks, the parade will head east on Granite Street with the dragon stopping along the route to bless business sponsors. Those in attendance are encouraged to follow the dragon and become part of the procession. The Butte High History Club will serve as dragon dancers again this year. Following the parade, a reception with refreshments will be held at the Mai Wah Museum (17 West Mercury Street).

Rabbits are the fourth animal of the Chinese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are believed to be vigilant, witty, quick-minded, and ingenious. “Rabbits” are also known for their empathy and sensitive artistic feelings. They often find creative jobs more attractive and are successful in art, music, architecture, and literature. They also enjoy jobs that require observation and attention to fine detail.

Events Leading Up to Parade

Butte-Silver Bow Public Library Offers Take-and-Make Lantern Craft Bags

In the week leading up to the Chinese New Year Parade (January 23-27), the Butte-Silver Bow Public Library will offer a craft opportunity for families. It will provide take-and-make-craft bags that families can take home and make a Chinese lantern. For more information, please contact the library at (406) 723-3361.


Helena and Butte Presentations on the History of Chinese New Year in Montana

Mai Wah Board Member Mark Johnson had his book The Middle Kingdom under the Big Sky published in 2022. He will be speaking in both Helena and Butte about the history of Chinese New Year in Montana:

•Helena: January 23, 2023, at the Lewis and Clark Library from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
•Butte: January 27, 2023, at the Isle of Books from 5:00-6:30 p.m.