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By Ellie Hyvonen and Cheryl Crawford
On Sunday, February 2, a group of JRHS students and adults attended the Chinese New Year Festival at YMCA Westwood Park in Nashua. The experience was especially meaningful for three of our international students from China as we enjoyed traditional dances, Chinese opera, and an exciting Lion Dance—performed to a vigorous drumbeat with gongs and cymbals. The two lions even playfully spat out oranges and chopped-up cabbage for good luck! 🥬🍊
According to Chinese tradition, the Lunar New Year begins with the new moon between January 21 and February 20. There are many animals and colors and foods that represent the various aspects of a new year celebration. In the words of the program director, “This festival is the most important celebration of the Chinese calendar. It represents the union of the culture around the spring season and new year.”
We explored Chinese arts and crafts, creating lanterns and fans, and practicing Chinese calligraphy. The food was another highlight, with delicious samples of crab rangoon, lo mein, dumplings, and rice. Best of all was the opportunity to celebrate and share the richness of Chinese culture and community! 🎏✨
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