One of our favorite February traditions, the Chinese Lunar New Year Parade and Festival, took place yesterday around the streets of Chinatown. Things sound like they went a little smoother this year than during the previous two editions of the event — in 2009, the traditional five-story firecracker display was delayed and eventually cancelled due to a suspected gas leak in the area, while in 2010, the presence (or lack thereof) of the Taiwanese flag was a source of serious contention. But the lack of drama was just fine with DCist staff photographer Kevin Carroll, who was able to focus his lens on the joyous aspects of the celebration.