Entering the Year of the Ox

It’s the year of the ox on the Chinese calendar, and the ox brings “prosperity in business as a result of logical thought, resolute practicality and honest endurance,” according to Chinese thought. Three Southern California events planned to celebrate the Chinese New Year feature lion dancers, Chinese acrobats, food and cultural exhibits.

A lion dance through downtown San Diego kicks off the festivities at the Chinese New Year Food & Cultural Faire. Highlights include performances by the Chinese Acrobats (by way of Las Vegas), martial arts demonstrations, Asian Story Theater performances, Peking Opera and more. The fair will be held at the Administration Building, 1600 Pacific Highway. Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $3; ages 12 and younger, free. Call for performance schedule: (619) 234-4447.

The Chinese American Expo includes dancing, exhibits and food. Fairplex 4, 5 and 6, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. $7; ages 12 and younger, $5. Parking, Gate 14, $5. (909) 623-3111.

Monterey Park celebrates with the Flower Market Festival, along East Garvey Avenue, between Garfield and Nicholson avenues. Opening ceremony includes a lion dance. Carnival rides, games. About 100 vendors will sell flowers, food, clothing and Chinese items. Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission and parking. (818) 280-6860.