One important event before and during the festival are lion dances.

A buffet dinner and a lion dance follow at 8:30.

The fifth panel shows a Chinese person dancing the traditional lion dance.

Japan also has a tradition of lion dance throughout the nation, dancing in pace with the music.

The lion dance marks the end of the previous harvest and the coming planting season.

During the festival, Chinese operas, lion dances, and religious services also take place on the island.

It is known for its excellent North vs. South lion dance.

Live entertainment will include music, a youth choir and, tomorrow at noon, a lion dance.

Kwan was also known for his skills in the lion dance and Chinese calligraphy.

"The whole celebration of the lion dance is tied to the firecrackers," he said.