High-flying lions bring personality to Lunar New Year celebrations

The JL Sports Association’s Jui Long Lion Dance Troupe in Garland practices acrobatic, two-person lion dances and says the colorful costumes carry different meanings during Lunar New Year.

Lunar New Year began on February 17, and the lions have been a vivid presence at celebrations. Reporters visited the JL Sports Association’s Jui Long Lion Dance Troupe in Garland and watched a practice session in the team’s warehouse. Instructors explained that costume colors carry symbolic meanings and that some designs reference historical stories. The troupe combines traditional movements with acrobatic lifts to bring the lion to life for audiences. Reported details: - The Jui Long Lion Dance Troupe started in 2014 and has grown from 8 members to more than 43. - Members said the team includes people from a range of backgrounds, including Hispanic and African American communities, and that the activity is used to bridge communities. - Instructors described color meanings: white often represents purity, red is associated with good luck, and some colors match team identities or reference historical figures such as Zhao Yun. - Each lion is performed by two people: the head operator creates facial expressions while the tail partner supplies lifts and acrobatic movement. - The team practiced a high-table routine and was preparing for a busy month of performances, including a planned half-time appearance at a Dallas Mavericks game. Summary: The lion dance combines cultural symbolism, athletic skill, and music to mark Lunar New Year and to welcome prosperity and joy. The troupe’s growth and diverse membership illustrate its role in community connection, and the group is preparing for multiple upcoming performances.