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With the deafening crackle of firecrackers, hundreds came to Hester Street playground to welcome a new year.

"They were very loud and explosive and I enjoyed it very much," said one reveler.

The firecracker ceremony, which is intended to ward off evil spirits, was part of a festival celebrating Asian-American culture with dancing and music. It was organized by the Better Chinatown Society, a volunteer organization that seeks to build solidarity in the community and generate awareness of Chinatown.

"The community has a chance to show the rest of the world what the Chinese culture is all about," said Better Chinatown Society President Nathan Conan.

For those on hand, the day was all about celebration, and passing the torch to the next generation.

"I come out and celebrate my heritage," said a young reveler. "I am learning a lot about my traditions."

"It's really nice that it's so traditional," said another. "The different colors and what everything means is interesting."

The party was not confined to the park. As always, the streets of Chinatown were home to dancers looking to ensure good luck throughout the Year of the Ox.

"I learned at a very young age about this stuff," said Greg Gong, president of the New York Free Mason Athletic Club. "It's part of your culture and heritage, so I think it's very important."

This is not the end of the Lunar New Year celebration in Chinatown. There will be events all throughout the week, including a big parade on Sunday.