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round a thousand New Year revelers turned out for the 8p dragon run. Members of the Drumming Dragons played in front of The Bean, setting the beat, and the dragons entered. The smaller dragon went first, starting near Garland Fulcher Seafood, making its way to Wall St. at the other end. Dragon two, the larger dragon, entered after and the two moved through the crowds, meeting up near The Village Gallery.

The early crowd on New Year’s Eve.

Crowds brought noise makers – usually pots and pans, but sometimes horns and drums – making good use of them to welcome the dragons and the new year. Touching the dragons is supposed to be good luck. Several spectators not only touched the dragon, but ventured under the larger one, helping propel it along.

Pots, pans, and the occasional wooden spoon are put to work to help bring out the dragon.

It’s said to bring good luck.

The Croaker hung above it all, dangling from the mast of a visiting Freedom 40 ketch, waiting for the midnight drop. The 11:30p run was less crowded. A small cannon, the size of a loaf of bread, was prepped and shot off from the free dock, adding to the noise.

The Croaker among the masts.

Croaker close-up.

The evening is an effort of several residents and visitors. Dragon Master Jim Edwards, with the help of his daughter Alexis and several others, coordinated the the movement and run of the larger dragon as well as the Croaker Drop. Larry Summers, Eric Kindle, and the Chinese Dragon crew help the Chinese Dragon dance. Rotary Club provides the temporary dragon lair (a tent) at Hodges St. and S. Water St. Village Mini Storage provides the year-round dragon lair. Patrons of the Dragon fund the New Year’s Eve dragon’s lair.

Dressed for the occasion.

The Drumming Dragons kept the beat.

Lori Wagoner in her best dragon gear.

A dragon lurks in the dark.

The toothy dragon view.

More limbs than your standard dragon.

The smaller, Chinese Dragon mid-coil.

Reaching out for good luck.

Eric Kindle takes over at the late run.

The start of a new tradition? Get your photo with the New Year Croaker.

New Year’s Eve 2019.

Posted Thursday January 2, 2020 by Allison DeWeese