Hawks and rats might be enemies in the wild, but one will celebrate the other Sunday at State Farm Arena.
The Atlanta Hawks will recognize the Lunar New Year — the Year of the Rat — with a variety of events.
» More ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Atlanta
If you're at the game, look along the arena concourse for traditional dragon and lion dances. How can you tell the difference? The lion costume has just two dancers, but the dragon will have an odd number, usually nine or 11, but they can have more.
In addition to the arena’s top-notch food and beverages, executive chef Joe Schafer has created a menu inspired by the Lunar New Year that will be featured in the venue’s premium, inclusive spaces and available on the restaurant portable outside Section 116 in the Hawk Walk Market.
» Atlanta Hawks, State Farm Arena get top marks in NBA for food, beverages
Once you have your food, enjoy the national anthem being sung by 8-year-old singer, model and actor Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja. She gained national attention in 2018 when sang before a MLS match.
» Watch: Girl gives rousing rendition of national anthem before MLS match
During a break in the game dancers Tomo from the Cleveland Cavaliers and Kei from the Oklahoma City Thunder will join the ATL Hawks Dancers for a special routine, the team announced in a news release. Earlier this season, Tomo and Kei joined Chika, captain of the ATL Hawks Dancers, at the NBA Global Games in Japan.
But wait … there’s more.
During halftime, 20 dancers with the Chinese American Cultural Performing Group will present a choreographed water sleeve dance called “The Dance of Beauty.”
Throughout the day, the Hawks will have surprise-and-delight giveaways, including traditional red gift envelopes and plush rats to commemorate the 2020 Chinese zodiac, in addition to commemorative Lunar New Year mini basketballs.
Tickets remain and can be bought via Hawks.com/LunarNewYear.
The Hawks take on the Washington Wizards on Sunday.
DETAILS
What: Atlanta Hawks celebrate Lunar New Year
Time: 4:45 p.m.: Door to arena open, with dragon and lion dances on the concourse
6 p.m.: Game tips off
Date: Sunday, Jan. 26
Place: State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303
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