Bengali New Year

A Baishakhi Mela. Happy New Year for the Bengali Community.

I stumbled on the festivities towards the end of the celebrations so missed the parade. I'll be sure to be there next year for what is the biggest celebration to welcome in the new year outside of Bengal.

January 2012 - Best of 2011

Traditionally on the first day of the New Year those of us at CDP post a copy of our best image of the previous year. I don't know that this was my best but it was one that you all seemed to like. I'll probably be looking a bit like this after my Bollywood dancing last night - pink that is! I have preposted this as I have no intention of getting up early today. Besides I'm probably still out on the town kicking up my heels, and welcoming in 2012.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Bollywood

I'm off to a Bollywood party to see the New Year in. I've learnt my dance moves - turn the light bulb, pat the dog. Have my finery. See you next year.
Where ever you are I hope you have a lovely New Year and thank you all for dropping by. Hope you'll stay with me in 2012.

Red Hat Society

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple
With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.
And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

So begins the poem that inspires the women of a certain age who are members of the red hat society.

New Year's Day Parade

Bon vivant 2011.

New Year's Day Parade

Like everything in London, welcoming in the new year is spectacular. Fantastic fireworks on the eve and the Mayor's parade on New Year's day. Thousands of performers from marching bands to giant pigeons, puppets, morris dancers, firemen, and clowns to mention but a few. It takes over three hours for the parade to weave it's noisy and colourful way from Piccadilly to Westminster. Nature was kind and New Years day was fine and sunny - that surely is a good start to 2010.