Story by a Bendigo mum
Forget the bunny… Bendigo is counting the sleeps until the Easter dragon comes.
We’re waiting for Sun Loong’s awakening, via traditional Chinese ceremony, when the Dance of the Lions will prise open his slumbering eyes.
Once a year Sun Loong leaves his Chinese Museum home to enliven the streets at Easter.
His important role in the Bendigo Easter Festival procession is legendary, but he also has his place in the folklore of every local family.
A constant through generations, Sun Loong weaves through the stories of those who make the annual pilgrimage to see him pass.
As a child I remember the crack and smoke and beat of his Easter arrival. He was an assault on all the senses. I remember the city reflected in 90,000 mirrored scales. The strong, fast legs of men bold enough to carry him.
I now bring my own son to feel the great beast’s breath and in years to come, he will speak of him, too.
For locals and visitors to Bendigo at Easter, the world’s longest Imperial dragon is a highlight, but he’s in good company.
For families there is no better time to visit. Picture a giant Easter egg hunt, children’s entertainers, fireworks and more.
Bendigo’s creative also put on a show with art and photography exhibitions, a craft market, wood turning displays plus live and local music.
The three-day event packs the city centre with fun and festivities for all ages.
I never miss the YMCA book sale – where the bookish partake in a polite scramble over thousands of titles, rare and peculiar.
I love the Easter Saturday evening standing ovation to our volunteer fire fighters who modestly walk in the night procession.
I love being part of an unbroken line of festival goers to Australia’s longest-running community event, stretching back 145 years.
But mostly, I love the dragon Sun Loong; for uniting all the cultures of a bustling city and for making family memories to cherish.
For more information about the Bendigo Easter Festival, please click here.