RING IN THE CHINESE NEW YEAR WITH THE WESTIN ST. FRANCIS

Gung Hay Fat Choy! It’s almost time for the Southwest Airlines Chinese New Year Parade on February 11, a San Francisco tradition dating back to the mid-1800s. The largest celebration of its kind outside of Asia, thousands of people line the streets every year to view this lively parade filled with vibrant colors, elaborate floats, intricate costumes, and the spectacular 250' feet Golden Dragon, Gum Lung. With the parade moving through the downtown area and curling around Union Square, there’s no better place to enjoy the festivities than at the historic Westin St. Francis, located just steps from the parade route.

The Westin St. Francis is inviting guests to celebrate the Year of the Rooster with the “Chinese New Year Parade Package.” Enjoy luxurious accommodations, two bleacher seat tickets to the parade, and complimentary overnight parking. SPG members will also receive an additional 750 Starpoints. Valid for stays from Feb. 8-14, 2017. Rates start at $234 per night; based upon availability; excludes tax.

Food is the cornerstone of Chinese New Year celebrations, so in the spirit of the festivities, The Oak Room Restaurant is featuring dim sum on their delicious breakfast buffet. Dumplings symbolize "gen shui jiao zhi" which means to "ring out the old year and ring in the new." Legend has it that the more dumplings you eat during the New Year celebration, the more money you can make in the upcoming cycle as they symbolize prosperity. For a celebratory drink, head to Caruso’s for the delicious “Red Rooster Cocktail” consisting of Wild Turkey Bourbon, Top Hat Ginger, Szechuan liquor, Cointreau, and cranberry juice, available through February 28.

For overnight reservations, call (415) 397-7000, toll free (800) 917-7458 or visit www.westinstfrancis.com.