This is going to be spectacular.

The Cork Chinese community is celebrating the Chinese New Year by inviting the public to join them in making wishes for 2020 at a magical city centre event.

A traditional 1,000 lamps ceremony will see 1,000 candles lit in the Unitarian Church on Princes Street on Saturday, January 25th at 6pm.

A Buddhist custom, which believers hope will bring them good luck in the Year of the Metal Rat, everyone in the audience is invited to light candles for their intentions.

Drop by for an astrological cleanse 

Later, at 9pm, a Tai Sui Dharma Rite will be performed “for those requesting to overcome obstacles brought by the forthcoming year”.

In Chinese astrology, every year is governed by a zodiac sign. Devotees believe that luck, success, and prosperity are affected by the ruling zodiac sign of the current year. If your personal zodiac sign does not have a good relationship with the sign of the current year, Chinese astrology suggests it could cause challenging circumstances (ie. major drama).

“This protective, life-enhancing prayer ceremony is of exclusive benefit to those born under any of the four zodiac signs that are in conflict with or offending the upcoming year’s ruling sign, and registering on the An Tai Sui beneficiary list. Those born under the “offending” Chinese zodiac animal signs are strongly recommended to register for the An Tai Sui Dharma Rite.” say the Cork Chinese Esoteric Buddhist School.

Can’t hurt, I guess.

The Festival lasts until February 2nd, 2020 when the Shaolin Kung Fu performers will stage a dramatic Lions & Dragon Dance in two locations, Princes St and Nano Nagle Place on Douglas Street.

You can find free tickets for all the events here.