On Saturday, Feb. 19, 2011 at 5:15 p.m. a spectacular parade that has been called "One of the Top 10 Parades in the World", launches on Market Street at 2nd in San Francisco. Firecrackers and the the dazzling 250' Golden Dragon "Gum Lung" let guests know the parade has begun. San Francisco's Chinese New Year's Parade is a must-see event. Its history dates back to just after the California Gold Rush, and it has been a tradition ever since.

Festive costumes in the dark of the night shine bright thanks to flood lighting set along the parade route for hundreds of thousands to see. In addition to the parade, there are activities spanning several weeks leading up to the big event. The Chinese Flower Market lets you pick out your flowers and gifts for loved ones, a Chinatown Fair provides the entertainment and festivities of a traditional Chinese celebration, a pageant is hosted to select the Parade Queen and her court, and a 5/ 10K Run raises money for special causes. Chineseparade.com has all the answers to your questions.