The Dragon Dance is a traditional performance at most New Year celebrations. It is one of the most anticipated events and has a long history that includes performances at the Imperial Court in the Forbidden City in ancient China.

These dances take place across China and in New Year celebrations around the world. The 'dragon' is made of painted or patterned fabric or paper, held rigid with bamboo or plastic hoops. For each member of the dance troupe, there is a pole affixed to one of the hoops that allow the performer to apply movement to the dragon. There is a kind of pacer who moves ahead of the dragon and carries a 'pearl' which the dragon then chases.

The performance is kept on rhythm by a drum beat or other musical queues. It is the role of the performers to keep time with the head movements and promote the smooth flow of the body.

This dragon dance was filmed in California, during New Year celebrations in 2006: