A colorful display of decorations, live entertainment and an abundance of food were made for a Webster celebration of the Chinese New Year. Sunnen Lounge was filled with people Thursday, Jan. 26 as different festivities took place.
“We have quite a few Chinese students here,” Emma Laheus, a department associate at the Confucius Institute, said. “We wanted to give them the opportunity to celebrate and really honor their culture.”
Volunteer Chinese teachers from the Confucius Institute started the celebration with a performance on a Chinese instrument called a zheng, also known as a Chinese harp. Volunteer teacher Peng Li presented on Chinese New Year. Peng explained that Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, originated from Chinese mythology thousands of years ago.
“People lit firecrackers and drove the beast called Nian away to bring good luck to the people,” Peng said. “The celebration evolved to what it is right now.”
Peng’s presentation was followed by the Circus Harmony acrobats who showcased their flexibility and strength.
Cristina Johnston is a sophomore international education major who helped promote the event.
“We should recognize their culture and how it is different from our own,” Johnston said. “It’s something that’s fun and very interesting that both students and staff can enjoy.”
The Chinese New Year celebration was sponsored by the Center for International Education, MultiCultural Center and International Student Affairs (MCISA), Chinese Student Association, International Gaming Club and Confucius Institute.
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