The Year of the Wood Dragon
By Lani Gering
For the last few years, I have dedicated the majority of the February column to the Chinese New Year themed installation in the Conservatory at the MGM Grand. I just love the Chinese New Year “stuff” and I really get excited when I go to a Chinese restaurant and they have the place mats that have all of the years and animals on them. You know, the ones that tell you who you are and aren’t compatible with, what your personality is like, etc. According to my reliable source – Chinesenewyear.net – this is the Year of the Wood Dragon. Celebrations commence on February 10th and, 2024 and runs through January 28, 2025.
About said Wood Dragon…According to my web search, Wood Dragons are very lively and enthusiastic, charming their way into every social circle with a dash of self-confidence. These highly intellectual individuals quickly take advantage of every opportunity. Dragons aren’t easily discouraged in the face of difficulties (although failures do pinch their egos)! They’re somewhat perfectionists (and mysteriously lucky) who always maintain the high standards they set for themselves. Humorous and diplomatic in their ways, Wood Dragons have a sixth sense for business that no other Chinese zodiac sign possesses. Overall, people born in the Year of the Wood Dragon are considered to be the luckiest folks out there, with good fortune being their constant companion. Wood Dragons truly have a Midas touch!
This year’s display, as in the past, has elements of Chinese gardens, the likes of pagodas and koi fish, along with 16,000+ flowers, massive Chinese lanterns and a glistening pond where the beautiful silk rose koi fish is frolicking. The Money Tree is back as well. As far as the animatronics go…the dragon moves his tail and his head and I do believe there are some sound effects that accompany said movement. The exhibit had just been completed a couple of hours before I was there to take photos so it was being tweaked. The sounds of the fountain and the water fall that is placed next to the silk koi pond is very soothing as is the music that plays softly in the background. This installation is definitely worth a trip to the MGM.
The installation opened in late January and will be up through mid-March and is available to view 24 hours a day. I always tell people that they don’t have to care about the Casino to visit the Conservatory. There is a wide range of food and drink options that cater to those looking for fine dining and for those who want an affordable meal. The parking is FREE and it doesn’t cost anything to just go look at something beautiful and do some very interesting people watching! My suggestion is to visit on a Wednesday or Thursday to avoid crowds (unless there is a big concert in the Theater) and avoid Mondays and Tuesdays since some of the stores and restaurants aren’t open on these days.
“Fooduary” – National Harbor’s version of Restaurant Week – runs from the 2nd through the 11th this year. You will find prix fixe menus, classes and demonstrations from chefs and bartenders at locations throughout the Harbor. Check out the offerings at two of our very favorites – Bond 45 and Fiorella’s Italian Kitchen!
February in the Harbor is pretty mellow but if you want to see what is happening, check out the Harbor Facebook page and the Gaylord National Facebook page as well as their websites to see what other interesting adventures you can get yourself into. The Capital Wheel is offering a “Wheel Memories Package” that includes two adult tickets, an 8×6 full color glossy photo and one digital download for $44 ($54 value). Tickets can be purchased online or at the Ticket Booth on the pier. Package valid for two months from date of purchase. www.thecapitalwheel.com
Don’t forget that 2024 is a Leap Year! This means we have an extra day in February and the 29th falls on a Thursday. If you are a 9-5er, it might be a good time to use a “personal” day and pay a visit to the Conservatory and the Harbor.