San Francisco will celebrate Chinese New Year 2000 and the Year of the Dragon with a myriad of events scheduled January 29-February 21. One of the most powerful and admired animals in the Chinese Zodiac family, the dragon represents a symbol of strength, adventure, courage and prosperity.

Many momentous occasions in San Francisco have occurred throughout the 20th century during the Year of the Dragon. The early part of the century witnessed historical events such as the opening of the Bank of Italy (now the Bank of America) in 1904, the lighting of Market Street's "Path of Gold" in 1916 and the establishment of direct air service between San Francisco and Los Angeles in 1928 via Western Air Express, the predecessor of Western Airlines, which later became Delta.

During the mid-century, the Year of the Dragon celebrated the re-opening of the world's fair in 1940 at Treasure Island, the opening of the Broadway Tunnel linking Chinatown to the "Avenues" in 1952 and the declaration of the cable cars as a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Also in 1964, plans were made to construct the Moscone Center. During the most recent Year of the Dragon in 1988, the San Francisco 49ers won the Super Bowl just at the close of the year. Year 2000 also promises to bring prosperity and to celebrate, there will be a variety of festivals and events throughout San Francisco.

Members of San Francisco's Chinatown community will host the annual Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Festival and Parade from Saturday, January 29 through Sunday, February 20, 2000. This three-week public celebration will include a variety of events such as the Flower Market Fair, the Carnival Street Fair, a 10K/5K Run/Walk and the Miss Chinatown Pageant, Coronation Ball and Fashion Show.

The festivities will culminate on the weekend of February 19-20 with the Chinese New Year Parade on February 19th, featuring a new 200 foot dragon float named "Gum Lung" and the Chinese Community Street Fair and a Chinese Culture Center Spring Festival, both held on February 20. A preview of "Gum Lang" will take place on January 29. For a detailed list of events, call (415) 391-9680 or visit the website www.chineseparade.com.